Sir Ganga Ram Hospital has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in the treatment of breast cancer with brain metastasis, showcasing the potential of cutting-edge therapies to transform cancer care.

A 58-year-old woman diagnosed with estrogen receptor-positive, HER2-neu-low breast cancer faced a daunting challenge when her cancer spread to the brain after an initial near-complete remission with hormonal therapy (ribociclib and letrozole). Under the care of Dr. Shyam Agarwal, Chairman of Medical Oncology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, her condition deteriorated, with symptoms including severe headaches, vomiting, and mobility issues.

A diagnosis of meningeal involvement and malignant cells in her cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) posed significant hurdles, as brain metastasis in breast cancer is notoriously difficult to treat. Initial interventions, including radiotherapy and intraspinal chemotherapy, brought only minimal relief.

The turning point came with the introduction of Trastuzumab Deruxtecan (T-DXD), a novel antibody-drug conjugate with a unique ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. This advanced therapy targets HER2-neu-positive cancer cells, offering new hope for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

After just two doses of T-DXD, the patient experienced a remarkable recovery. Her lower limb weakness reduced, she regained mobility, and her urinary control improved, allowing the removal of her catheter. Continued courses of T-DXD further enhanced her quality of life and mobility, marking a significant breakthrough in managing advanced breast cancer.

Dr. Shyam Agarwal remarked, “This case exemplifies the transformative potential of innovative therapies like T-DXD in treating metastatic breast cancer, particularly with brain involvement. It highlights our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions and instilling hope in patients facing the most challenging cancer diagnoses.”

Dr. Ajay Swaroop, Chairman of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, added, “Our hospital remains dedicated to offering comprehensive cancer care through advanced drug therapies and the latest radiotherapy modalities. This achievement underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of oncology care.”