Prognostic value of serum vascular endothelial growth factor in Egyptian females with metastatic triple negative breast cancer

ObjectivesThe aim of this work was to explore the value of serum vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) in patients with metastatic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) treated with chemotherapy. The primary end point was overall survival (OS). Secondary end points were response rate (RR), progression-free survival (PFS) and VEGF-A level at baseline, mid-therapy and at the end of therapy.Design and methodsFemale patients aged 18 years or above with histologically proven metastatic TNBC were included. Serum VEFG-A levels were measured at baseline, after the 3rd and 6th cycles of FAC chemotherapy regimen (Fluorourcil, Adriamycin, and Cyclophamide).ResultsThe overall RR was 57%. The median PFS and OS were 7 and 11.2 months, respectively (95% CI: 4.3–9.7 and 3.8–18.5 months, respectively). Patients whose disease progressed despite therapy had a significantly higher baseline VEGF-A level than those who did not progress. VEGF-A level did not drop with continuation of therapy. Patients with high VEGF-A level had a significantly lower PFS but not OS than patients with low levels.ConclusionThe outcome of metastatic TNBC is poor with FAC chemotherapy regimen. Alternative chemotherapeutic regimens and novel therapeutic approaches including targeting of VEGF and/or its receptors are warranted.