Predictive value of ultrasound assessment of axillary and brachial artery parameters for lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the predictive value of ultrasound assessment of axillary and brachial artery parameters for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in breast cancer (BRCA) patients.

Methods: The clinical data of 172 cancer patients were reviewed, and the patients were stratified into two groups based on the presence or absence of axillary LNM. Ultrasound assessment was employed to evaluate axillary and brachial artery parameters using specific techniques, and arterial characteristics were analyzed.

Results: Significant differences were observed in the ultrasound parameters of both axillary and brachial arteries between the non-LNM and LNM groups. Specifically, axillary and brachial artery diameters and resistive index exhibited significant differences and correlations with axillary LNM. Furthermore, molecular markers such as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status, estrogen receptor (ER) status, and progesterone receptor (PR) status were found to be significantly correlated with LNM. Additionally, a nomogram was constructed, demonstrating the predictive value of the integrated arterial parameters. The combined model, incorporating axillary and brachial artery parameters, exhibited a higher predictive capability for axillary LNM compared to individual arterial parameters (AUC = 0.984).

Conclusion: Ultrasound assessment of axillary and brachial artery parameters, in conjunction with molecular markers, holds promise as a non-invasive tool for predicting LNM in BRCA patients. The observed correlations provide insights into the potential clinical relevance of arterial parameters in risk stratification and treatment planning. Further research in larger, prospective cohorts is warranted to validate the findings and enhance the precision of BRCA management.