Can Breast Cancer Biopsies Trigger Spread? | Risks, Advanced Testing & Safer Options | Dr. Goodyear

Dr. Nathan Goodyear dives deep into the latest in integrative cancer care. In this episode, we take a critical look at breast cancer biopsy methods, the associated survival rates, and the long-term impacts of different biopsy techniques on patient outcomes. For patients facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the type of biopsy selected—whether fine needle aspirate (FNA), core needle biopsy, or excisional biopsy—can significantly impact survival and long-term health.

Key Topics Covered:

Biopsy Methods and Survival Impact: Dr. Goodyear explores evidence from a major cohort study examining 3,416 breast cancer patients, discussing the survival implications based on biopsy type. He delves into the five-year survival rates associated with each method and the crucial role radiotherapy plays in modifying these outcomes. In particular, fine needle aspirate biopsies show a distinct survival advantage over core needle biopsies in terms of disease-free outcomes, making the biopsy type a critical decision in patient care.

Risks of Distant Metastasis: Highlighting research from a Swedish study, Dr. Goodyear explains how core needle biopsies are linked to higher rates of metastasis in breast cancer patients 5 to 15 years after diagnosis. This segment provides insights into the lasting impact of biopsy methods on cancer spread, with core needle biopsies showing increased long-term risk. This critical information can empower patients to engage in informed discussions with their healthcare providers.

The Role of Immunoediting in Cancer Progression: Immunoediting is a process by which the immune system manages cancer cells through phases of elimination, equilibrium, and escape. Dr. Goodyear discusses how invasive biopsy techniques may disrupt this natural process, shifting the cancer from a controlled state to one where it evades the immune system. This segment underscores the need for caution when selecting biopsy methods to avoid inadvertently advancing tumor growth.

Advancements in Biopsy Techniques: Dr. Goodyear examines innovative techniques that are paving the way for less invasive, higher-precision approaches to cancer diagnosis. These include liquid biopsies—like Guardant360 and BostonGene—which analyze circulating tumor DNA and genetic fragments in the blood, potentially offering a safer alternative to traditional tissue biopsies. He also shares his experience with intratumoral immunotherapy, where biopsy, ablation, and immunotherapy are combined in one minimally invasive procedure to reduce risks and enhance patient outcomes.

Patient Empowerment and Informed Decision-Making: In an era of advancing technologies, patients have more options than ever before. Dr. Goodyear advocates for patient empowerment through evidence-based decisions, encouraging individuals to question standard procedures and choose the biopsy method that aligns with their unique health goals. He also highlights the limitations of current protocols and urges patients to stay informed and proactive in their cancer care.

Key Takeaways:

Survival Rates Vary: Each biopsy type impacts survival differently, with excisional biopsies showing higher survival rates.

Metastasis Risks Are Real: Core needle biopsies increase the risk of distant metastasis over time.

Immunoediting Disruption: Certain biopsy techniques may interfere with the immune system’s ability to control cancer growth.

Liquid Biopsies Hold Promise: Emerging technologies are transforming biopsy practices, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Empower Yourself: Informed patients can advocate for safer, personalized cancer care decisions.
Chapter Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Why Biopsy Type Matters
02:55 - Comparing Fine Needle, Core Needle, and Excisional Biopsies
05:46 - The Role of Radiotherapy in Survival Rates
09:07 - Immunoediting and Cancer’s Progression
12:11 - Surgical Risks and Patient Empowerment
15:06 - Innovations in Biopsy Techniques: Liquid Biopsies and Beyond
17:58 - Moving Forward: Empowering Patients and Elevating Cancer Care

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