Option of the surgical mode for breast cancer based on the effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy has become standard treatment for breast cancer patients to avoid mastectomy in larger tumors. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy permits more breast-conserving surgery to be performed. The treatment outcome is favorable in women whose tumors show a complete pathological response. Histological grade, HER-2, p53, and hormone receptor status are significant predictive factors of a good pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In addition, computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging are useful tools in determining the optimal resection area for breast cancer.