SABCS: Lymphocytes May Signal Chemo Response in TNBC

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes may become an additional factor in determining which types of triple-negative breast cancer respond best to chemotherapy.  Seventy-five percent of tumors with the highest levels of lymphocytes—researchers call this lymphocyte predominate breast cancer (LPBC)—had a pathological complete response to doxorubicin and taxane plus carboplatin when compared to non-LPBC tumors. The results came from the GeparSixto trial (GBG 66) in Germany.

Pathologically complete response is especially important in disease-free survival of TNBC.

Triple-negative tumors typically have more lymphocytes than other types of breast cancer, but not all lymphocytes are created equal.  Tumors with CD8t  lymphocytes are associated with a strong response, while those with myeloid are not, according to the GeparQuattro trial conducted in Australia.

Researchers speculate that CD8t  lymphocytes work with the immune system to make chemo more effective.

Both studies were presented at the 2013 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.  

For another take on the research, check out Medscape's piece.