Case Report: A case of a pregnancy-associated breast cancer patient with a pathogenic variant in BRCA1 who underwent staged risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy - Report - MDSpire

Case Report: A case of a pregnancy-associated breast cancer patient with a pathogenic variant in BRCA1 who underwent staged risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy

  • By

  • Haruko Takuwa

  • Shoko Sasaki

  • Naoki Goda

  • Megumi Takeuchi

  • May 20, 2026

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Clinical Report: Pregnancy-Related Breast Cancer in a BRCA1 Variant Patient

Overview

This case study presents a 38-year-old woman with pregnancy-associated breast cancer and a BRCA1 pathogenic variant. The patient underwent individualized management involving surgery and chemotherapy during pregnancy, highlighting the complexities of treatment in this unique population.

Background

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is rare but carries a higher risk of mortality compared to non-pregnancy-associated cases. Patients with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC), particularly those with BRCA1/2 variants, face unique challenges in management due to the implications of their genetic predisposition. Understanding the treatment options and outcomes for these patients is crucial for optimizing care and improving survival rates.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • The patient was diagnosed with luminal B-like, stage IIA breast cancer at 8 weeks of gestation.
  • BRCA1 genetic testing confirmed a pathogenic variant, influencing treatment decisions.
  • Left total mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy were performed, followed by chemotherapy during pregnancy.
  • Adjuvant chemotherapy included doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide during pregnancy, followed by docetaxel postpartum.
  • Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and contralateral mastectomy were staged after the patient's delivery.

Clinical Implications

Management of breast cancer in pregnant patients with BRCA1 variants requires careful consideration of both maternal and fetal health. Individualized treatment plans that defer certain surgical interventions until after delivery can optimize outcomes while minimizing risks.

Conclusion

This case underscores the importance of personalized management strategies for pregnant patients with breast cancer and BRCA1 variants, balancing the need for effective cancer treatment with the safety of the fetus.

Related Resources & Content

  1. ASCO Post, 2021 -- Salpingo-Oophorectomy to Reduce Ovarian Cancer Risk in Women With BRCA1 or BRCA2 Pathogenic Variants May Also Reduce Breast Cancer Risk
  2. ASCO Post, 2026 -- Survival Outcomes With or Without Bilateral Risk-Reducing Mastectomy in BRCA1/BRCA2 Pathogenic Variant Carriers
  3. ASCO Post, 2026 -- Risk of Breast Cancer After Ovarian Cancer in Women With BRCA1/2 Variants
  4. Management of Cancer During Pregnancy: ASCO Guideline | Journal of Clinical Oncology
  5. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®)
  6. the asco post — Risk-Reducing Surgeries Improve Survival for Younger Patients With Breast Cancer Who Are BRCA Carriers, Study Finds
  7. Management of Cancer During Pregnancy: ASCO Guideline | Journal of Clinical Oncology
  8. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®)
  9. Adjuvant Olaparib for Patients with BRCA1- or BRCA2-Mutated Breast Cancer | New England Journal of Medicine

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