How is angiosarcoma after breast cancer radiation treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been recently diagnosed with angiosarcoma in previously radiated breast tissue. I had breast cancer eight years ago and underwent radiation therapy. This new diagnosis feels overwhelming, especially since my doctors keep emphasizing how rare angiosarcoma is. Additionally, I am worried that this could occur in other areas where I received radiation therapy.

Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Angiosarcoma in previously radiated breast tissue is rare and tends to be more aggressive than typical breast cancer, which is why your doctors seem concerned. Unlike breast cancer, which affects breast tissues, angiosarcoma is a cancer of the blood vessels, meaning hormone-blocking therapies will not be effective. Treatment typically involves surgery, such as wide excision or mastectomy, aiming for clear margins. Since you have already had radiation, re-radiation is usually not an option, but systemic therapies like taxane-based chemotherapy or doxorubicin are often recommended to control the microscopic disease. If your tumor expresses vascular endothelial growth factor, anti-angiogenic drugs like Pazopanib might also be considered.

Angiosarcoma has a higher risk of recurrence and metastasis than typical breast cancer, but outcomes depend on factors like tumor size (smaller tumors ≤5 cm have better outcomes), achieving clear surgical margins, and the absence of metastasis at diagnosis. Regular follow-up with MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or PET (positron emission tomography) scans is crucial due to the high risk of recurrence. Exploring clinical trials may also be beneficial, as newer therapies are being investigated for rare cancers like angiosarcoma.

I hope this helps.

Thank you, and take care.