Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate local control and its relation to survival in patients with locally advanced breast cancer treated with curative irradiation and systemic therapy. Patients and Methods: 240 patients with unresectable breast cancer were treated with curative radio- and chemo- or hormonotherapy from 1990-1995.
The frequency of distant dissemination and the overall survival of patients with and without complete local control were compared. Results: Complete local control was achieved in 63% of patients.
Complete local control correlated with decrease of distant metastases and increase of survival in comparison with patients without complete local control. Conclusion: Radiotherapy without surgery provides insufficient local control in patients with locally advanced breast cancer.
Complete local control is an important factor for prevention of distant dissemination and for survival.