Dr. Denduluri on the Role of Neoadjuvant Therapy in HER2+ Breast Cancer

Neelima Denduluri, MD, medical oncologist, Virginia Cancer Specialists, discusses the role of neoadjuvant therapy in HER2-positive breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer.

Historically, once a patient’s tumor has been surgically removed, they go on to receive adjuvant therapy to minimize their risk of recurrence. Over the past five years, research has shown thatneoadjuvant therapy can reduce a patient’s disease burden and can be given in the form of HER2-directed therapy, endocrine therapy, or chemotherapy. Notably, a patient who has a favorable response to neoadjuvant therapy often has a better overall outcome, says Denduluri.

Ultimately, if a patient has high-risk disease, they should be considered for neoadjuvant therapy, advises Denduluri.