Management of breast cancer during pregnancy

Key content Delays in childbearing trends are likely to lead to an increase in breast cancer cases diagnosed during pregnancy. Presentation is usually late because early diagnosis is more difficult. Surgery is safe throughout pregnancy, whilst radiotherapy and chemotherapy should be administered after completion of the first trimester. Breast cancer in pregnancy does not carry any significant obstetrical or perinatal risks. Termination of pregnancy does not affect maternal prognosis. Learning objectives To understand the role of diagnostic and staging procedures. To understand the various treatment modalities available. To understand the obstetric management and timing of delivery. To highlight the importance of the multidisciplinary team. Ethical issues At what gestation could termination of pregnancy be warranted? When should women embark on a further pregnancy after breast cancer treatment? Please cite this article as: Padmagirison R, Gajjar K, Spencer C. Management of breast cancer during pregnancy. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2010;12:186–192.