Breast cancer recurrence and screening: case report in a patient with HER2+

Abstract

Breast cancer is a malignant disease characterized by the abnormal growth of breast tissue. It is the most prevalent and deadly neoplasm in Mexico. Diagnosis is based on physical examination, ultrasound, and mammography. Screening begins at age 40. Treatment is multidisciplinary and includes radical or conservative surgery with axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel node biopsy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, among others. The risk of recurrence is prolonged and persists for more than a decade after treatment.

The case of a 51-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer and a history of quadrantectomy, laparoscopy for endometriosis, and resection of breast nodules is presented.

She experienced recurrence of breast cancer that led to left radical mastectomy and eight cycles of chemotherapy. The rapid recurrence after last follow-up assessment is accentuated. 

A review of the Clinical Practice Guidelines of the National Center of Technological Excellence in Health (CENETEC) and databases such as PubMed, Scielo and INEGI were consulted. The approach was retrospective, analyzing the patient's medical records and laboratory results. The importance of early detection and adequate follow-up in patients with significant histories is highlighted.