Dr. Accordino on Data From the PEARL Trial in HR+/HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer

Melissa K. Accordino, MD, MS, assistant professor of medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, discusses the findings of the phase III PEARL trial in hormone receptor (HR)—positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.

In the ongoing trial, investigators are comparing the use of the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib plus either exemestane or fulvestrant versus capecitabine (Xeloda) in patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer, says Accordino. Results showed no difference in efficacy with regard to progression-free survival (PFS), but the safety profiles were a bit different, adds Accordino. Among those patients who have already progressed on endocrine therapy, a CDK4/6 inhibitor and endocrine therapy might be a more favorable option over chemotherapy. The time to response was also similar in both arms of the study, which is reassuring, concludes Accordino.