Since original publication this guideline has been partially updated by NICE: In August 2017, we reviewed the evidence for assessing oestrogen receptor (ER) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status on disease recurrence and changed the recommendations in section 1.1. In July 2014, we reviewed the evidence for exercise for people with lymphoedema and added 2 new recommendations. Parts of this guideline were updated by a standing committee in 2017. One recommendation was deleted (crossed out) and 2 recommendations (marked in grey) in section 2.2 (page 9) were replaced with 1 new recommendation. This can be found in the addendum to this guideline, Advanced breast cancer 81.2.
These guidelines have been developed to help all those involved in the management of advanced breast cancer, including patients, carers and healthcare professionals. This is a very large subject, and it has not been possible to cover every aspect of advanced breast cancer. Instead we have tried to concentrate on those areas where it was felt uncertainty or practice variation currently exists. These include systemic treatments, lymphoedema and the treatment of metastases at specific sites such as bone and brain.
It is important to appreciate that this guideline is not intended as an exhaustive textbook on the management of advanced breast cancer. The guideline sets out recommendations that should be followed in the majority of clinical situations, but cannot be a substitute for clinical judgement in a specific case.
This document is produced alongside guidance on early breast cancer. We hope that those who use it will find it helpful and informative in decision making and management.
John Winstanley, GDG Chair
Nick Murray, GDG Lead Clinician
Publication Details
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Publisher
National Collaborating Centre for Cancer (UK), Cardiff (UK)
NLM Citation
National Collaborating Centre for Cancer (UK). Advanced Breast Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment. Cardiff (UK): National Collaborating Centre for Cancer (UK); 2009 Feb. (NICE Clinical Guidelines, No. 81.) Foreword.