Reirradiation for Breast Cancer

(REPEAT Trial)

This trial tests a reirradiation treatment called accelerated partial breast irradiation (aPBI) for individuals with breast cancer that has returned in the same breast after previous treatment. The main goal is to determine if the side effects of this reirradiation are manageable and if it effectively controls the cancer locally. The trial will also assess the breast's appearance after treatment. Suitable candidates for this trial include those with a second breast cancer in the same breast, diagnosed over a year after their initial breast-conserving therapy, and who have previously received radiation treatment. As a Phase 1, Phase 2 trial, this research aims to understand how the treatment works in people and measure its effectiveness in an initial, smaller group.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (aPBI) re-irradiation is generally well-tolerated by patients. A review of studies found that this treatment has manageable side effects, which are not severe for most people. One study found that the chance of breast cancer recurrence after aPBI is low, with only 3.3% of patients experiencing a recurrence over ten years. This suggests that the treatment is both effective and relatively safe.

Reirradiation for breast cancer is unique because it offers a new approach for patients who experience a recurrence of breast cancer in the same breast after previously undergoing breast-conserving therapy. While standard treatments typically involve surgery, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy, this method focuses on delivering precise radiation to the affected area again. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it has the potential to effectively target and reduce cancer cells in the breast while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This could offer a promising alternative for patients looking to avoid more invasive procedures.

Studies have shown that aPBI (accelerated partial breast irradiation) re-irradiation, which participants in this trial will receive, can help prevent breast cancer recurrence. In one study, only 5% of patients experienced a return of cancer within 5 years, indicating that most did not face recurrence during that period. Another study found that 92% of patients remained cancer-free after re-irradiation, with only one patient experiencing a recurrence. Additionally, data from a 10-year follow-up revealed a low recurrence rate of just 3.3% after aPBI treatment. These results suggest that aPBI re-irradiation is promising for preventing cancer from returning in the treated breast area.²⁵⁶⁷⁸