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Current Breast Cancer Reports

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01-03-2022 | Breast Cancer | Breast Cancer Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic (A Chagpar, Section Editor)

Breast Cancer Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic: the Radiation Oncology Perspective

Author: Christin A. Knowlton

Published in: Current Breast Cancer Reports | Issue 1/2022

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused disruption in healthcare throughout the world. The limitations placed on hospital resources and the need to limit potential exposure to SARS-CoV-2 for both patients and healthcare staff have affected oncologic care for patients with breast cancer (BC), including radiation therapy (RT). This review highlights published guidelines regarding the provision of radiotherapy for BC patients and their adoption by radiation oncology centers.

Recent Findings

Multiple international and national consortiums plus select institutions have published formal recommendations regarding radiation therapy for BC during the COVID-19 pandemic. They embody the principles of limiting in-person visits, proper triage, and the judicious use of delay, abbreviation, or omission of RT as appropriate.

Summary

Since the start of the pandemic, multiple publications have provided guidance regarding RT for BC during this challenging time. The pandemic has led to increased use of telemedicine and abbreviated radiation therapy courses in the setting of BC, which are likely to persist. Future research is needed to establish the effect of these changes on oncologic outcomes.

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Title: Breast Cancer Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic: the Radiation Oncology Perspective
Author: Christin A. Knowlton
Publication date: 01-03-2022
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer
COVID-19
Telemedicine
Published in: Current Breast Cancer Reports / Issue 1/2022
Print ISSN: 1943-4588
Electronic ISSN: 1943-4596
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12609-022-00441-7

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