Clinical Report: Assessment of Bupleurum-Infused Formulas in TNBC

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the safety and effectiveness of Bupleurum-containing formulas combined with chemotherapy for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a challenging subtype of breast cancer characterized by a lack of hormone receptors and HER2 expression, leading to poorer outcomes. Conventional chemotherapy regimens are often associated with significant toxicities, necessitating the exploration of adjunctive therapies that can enhance treatment efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly Bupleurum-containing formulas, is frequently used in China as a complementary approach to chemotherapy.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Bupleurum-containing formulas combined with chemotherapy significantly improved ORR and DCR in TNBC patients.
• Subgroup analysis indicated that treatment duration of 6 weeks was associated with greater improvements in ORR.
• Changes in peripheral blood T lymphocyte counts were observed with the combined treatment.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that Bupleurum-containing formulas may serve as a beneficial adjunct to chemotherapy in TNBC, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing toxicity. However, clinicians should consider the need for further high-quality studies to validate these results.

Conclusion

Combining Bupleurum-containing TCM formulas with chemotherapy may enhance treatment efficacy and safety for patients with TNBC, warranting further investigation in larger trials.

Related Resources & Content

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7. Bupleurum | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
8. Overall Survival with Pembrolizumab in Early-Stage Triple-Negative Breast Cancer | New England Journal of Medicine
9. Traditional Chinese medicine combined with chemotherapy for breast cancer after operation: A systematic review and meta-analysis - PMC
10. Bupleurum | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center