ArticlePloS one2025
Exploring the role of routine brain imaging in detecting asymptomatic brain metastases in first diagnosed HER2-positive breast cancer.
Article in PloS one, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper, 1 of them a synthesis that pooled it.
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1 citing paper in PubMed, 1 synthesis or guideline pooled it.
- Whole brain radiotherapy for brain metastases in Nigeria: a systematic review.Frontiers in public health · 2026Pooled it
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6 authors.
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No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
backgroundHER2-positive breast cancer is leading to aggressive tumor growth and a higher risk of metastasis, particularly to the central nervous system (CNS). Routine brain imaging for asymptomatic HER2-positive patients is debated, with no current consensus; Given the severe clinical implications of brain metastases, further research is needed to determine the cost-effectiveness and clinical utility of routine imaging for high-risk patients to improve outcomes and inform targeted screening protocols.
methodsThis retrospective, monocentric study at the General Hospital of Vienna (AKH Wien) examined female HER2-positive breast cancer patients at first diagnosis to assess brain metastasis from January 2019 to February 2024. The study included patients with asymptomatic confirmed HER2 positive breast cancer. Data were collected through comprehensive medical records and brain imaging with MRI.
resultsAmong 110 female patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 4 (3.6%) were diagnosed with brain metastases. Ki67 showed a marginal association with brain metastasis (p = 0.054), and tumor grade was a significant predictor, with intermediate differentiated tumors (G2 vs. G3) associated with a higher risk of brain metastases (p = 0.041) and brain metases are correlating with the axillary lymphnode status and the tumor sizeAlso, the absence of positive Östrogen and Progesteron receptors is a predictor in upcoming brain metastases (p < 0.001). Other factors like age were not significantly associated.
conclusionThis study found limited benefit in routine MRI for detecting asymptomatic brain metastases in HER2-positive breast cancer, given the low prevalence (3.6%). A targeted imaging approach for high-risk patients, like those with the absence of Hormon receptors and higher stage tumors, may be effective.
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