Pregnancy-associated Breast Cancer

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2016 Dec;59(4):779-788. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000235.

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies affecting pregnancy. Pregnancy-associated breast cancer refers to breast cancer that is diagnosed during pregnancy or within the first postpartum year. The incidence is increasing as more women delay childbearing. Breast cancer can be safely diagnosed, staged, and treated during pregnancy while protecting the fetus and mother with excellent outcomes for both. Avoiding diagnostic delays is vital to prognosis. This article provides an overview of the diagnosis, staging, management, and prognosis of pregnancy-associated breast cancer. Relevant current literature is reviewed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy, Large-Core Needle
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant / adverse effects
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Mammography
  • Neoadjuvant Therapy / adverse effects
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Postpartum Period
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / psychology
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / therapy*
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects
  • Risk Factors
  • Time-to-Treatment
  • Ultrasonography