Effect of Breast Surgery on Quality of Life in BRCA Mutation Carriers With Invasive Breast Cancer: A CANTO Database Study.

Abstract

Introduction/background: Breast cancer affects over 61,000 women annually in France. While only 5-10% of breast cancers are hereditary, BRCA1/2 mutations significantly increase the lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer, with cumulative invasive breast cancer risks of 72% (BRCA1) and 69% (BRCA2) by age 80. Surgical management in this population is crucial, as it directly impacts quality of life (QoL). However, prospective comparative data on surgical strategies are lacking.

Materials and methods: This prospective study analyzed data from the CANTO cohort to assess the impact of different surgical approaches on QoL in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Four surgical options were compared: breastconserving surgery (BCS), mastectomy, immediate breast reconstruction (IBR), and delayed breast reconstruction (DBR). Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated over time, focusing on body image, future perspective, sexual functioning, and physical symptoms.

Results: BCS and IBR were associated with better preservation of body image throughout follow-up. DBR significantly improved body image, future perspective, and sexual functioning beginning at the time of surgery. Breast and arm symptoms were overall moderate, but mastectomy resulted in increased arm symptoms, likely due to the higher rate of axillary lymphadenectomy.

Conclusion: When feasible, BCS should be preferred for BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, as it best preserves QoL. For patients requiring mastectomy, IBR is a valuable option, while DBR offers long-term benefits in body image and psychosocial well-being. Psychological support and structured postsurgical rehabilitation are strongly recommended to alleviate symptoms and optimize patient quality of life.