{"id":5298,"date":"2024-12-11T16:11:25","date_gmt":"2024-12-11T15:11:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/irccs.com\/patologie\/breast-tumors\/"},"modified":"2026-06-10T15:54:14","modified_gmt":"2026-06-10T13:54:14","slug":"breast-tumors","status":"publish","type":"pathology","link":"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/pathology\/breast-tumors\/","title":{"rendered":"Breast tumors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"pathology\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Pathology<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Breast cancer, also known as breast carcinoma, arises from the uncontrolled proliferation of cells within the <strong>mammary gland<\/strong>. It may present as a <strong>palpable lump<\/strong> or as an <strong>area of tissue thickening<\/strong> in the breast, and less frequently in the axillary region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Breast cancer is the <strong>most common malignancy in women<\/strong> and, if not diagnosed and treated promptly, can be potentially serious. <strong>Prevention and early detection are essential<\/strong>: regular participation in screening programs (such as mammography) and prompt medical evaluation of suspicious symptoms significantly increase the likelihood of identifying the disease at an <strong>early stage<\/strong>, when treatment is most effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of Breast Cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">BreasBreast cancer can present in different forms, which vary according to their origin and biological behavior:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ductal carcinoma:<\/strong> arises from the epithelial cells lining the milk ducts. It is the <strong>most common form (~80% of cases)<\/strong> and may extend beyond the ductal structures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lobular carcinoma:<\/strong> originates in the lobules, the structures responsible for milk production. It represents <strong>10\u201315% of cases<\/strong> and may involve both breasts or appear in multiple areas of the same breast.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rare histological types:<\/strong> include tubular, papillary, mucinous, and cribriform carcinomas. Although these forms may metastasize, they are generally associated with a <strong>more favorable prognosis<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS):<\/strong> a <strong>non-invasive form<\/strong> in which malignant cells remain confined within the ducts without invading surrounding tissues. When treated promptly, it has an <strong>excellent prognosis<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Accurate tumor classification is essential, as it directly influences both treatment planning and prognosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Numbers in Italy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.registri-tumori.it\/cms\/pubblicazioni\/i-numeri-del-cancro-italia-2023\">AIRTUM registry<\/a><\/strong> (Italian Association of Cancer Registries), in 2024 approximately <strong>53,686 new cases<\/strong> of breast cancer were diagnosed in Italy <strong>(53,065 in women and 621 in men)<\/strong>. It is the <strong>most frequently diagnosed cancer in women<\/strong>, while in men it is significantly rarer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"symptoms\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Breast cancer does not always present with obvious symptoms and is often detected during routine mammography or ultrasound screening. When present, common warning signs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Presence of a <strong>lump in the breast or axillary region<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes in <strong>breast size, shape, or appearance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alterations in <strong>nipple shape or position<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unilateral nipple discharge<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Skin changes such as <strong>dimpling, \u201corange peel\u201d texture, scaling, or redness<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"risk-factors\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Risk Factors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Risk factors for breast cancer are divided into <strong>non-modifiable<\/strong> and <strong>modifiable<\/strong> factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Non-Modifiable Risk Factors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Age:<\/strong> risk increases with advancing age<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Family or personal history:5\u201310% of cases are hereditary<\/strong>, often associated with mutations in the <strong>BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reproductive factors:<\/strong> early menarche (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), nulliparity, or first pregnancy after age 30<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Previous radiation exposure:<\/strong> such as prior chest radiotherapy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hormonal treatments:<\/strong> including oral contraceptives or menopausal hormone replacement therapy (although oral contraceptives are associated with a <strong>reduced risk of ovarian cancer<\/strong>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Modifiable Risk Factors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Smoking<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Overweight and obesity<\/strong>, particularly after menopause<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diet <\/strong>high in refined fats and sugars and low in fruit and vegetables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alcohol consumption<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"diagnosis-and-clinical-pathway\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Diagnosis and Clinical Pathway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/breast-unit\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5171\">Breast Unit<\/a><\/strong> at the <strong>Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> offers rapid access and a coordinated diagnostic and therapeutic pathway: less than <strong>15 days<\/strong> elapse between diagnosis and the definition of the treatment plan (surgical and\/or oncological-radiotherapy approach). In patients not eligible for immediate breast reconstruction during surgery, follow-up planning is similarly rapid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The diagnostic pathway begins at the <a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/radiodiagnostics\/\"><strong>Radiologdiagnostics Service<\/strong><\/a>, where <strong>lesions are identified<\/strong> through <strong>imaging <\/strong>techniques and, when necessary, interventional diagnostic procedures. <strong>Tissue samples <\/strong>are then analyzed by the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/pathologic-anatomy\/\">Pathology Unit<\/a><\/strong>, which defines the biological and molecular characteristics required for treatment planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Imaging Techniques<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imaging examinations are <strong>used to detect breast lesions<\/strong>, confirm suspected malignancy, and <strong>assess disease extent.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\t<div id=\"block_6a296c8537a6c\" class=\"accordion-block acf-block\">\n\t\t<div class=\"my-4 lg:my-6\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Mammography<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Mammography is a <strong data-start=\"17\" data-end=\"59\">radiographic examination of the breast<\/strong> that uses <strong data-start=\"70\" data-end=\"114\">low doses of ionizing radiation (X-rays)<\/strong>. It is performed by a <strong data-start=\"137\" data-end=\"168\">breast radiology technician<\/strong>, under the supervision and responsibility of the <strong data-start=\"218\" data-end=\"240\">breast radiologist<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-26\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-26\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-26\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-50\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" data-conversation-screenshot-content=\"\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"90dc0789-d1fb-461d-ba55-88ef7c563082\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"248\">The examination allows visualization of the <strong data-start=\"44\" data-end=\"64\">breast structure<\/strong> and can detect even <strong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"113\">very small tumor lesions<\/strong>. During mammography, the breast is <strong data-start=\"149\" data-end=\"189\">gently compressed between two plates<\/strong> to obtain optimal image quality and reduce radiation dose.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"383\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The procedure takes only a <strong data-start=\"277\" data-end=\"292\">few minutes<\/strong>, requires <strong data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"339\">no medication or contrast medium<\/strong>, and does not need any special preparation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Tomosynthesis or 3D Mammography<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"36\" data-end=\"345\"><strong data-start=\"36\" data-end=\"53\">Tomosynthesis<\/strong>, or <strong data-start=\"58\" data-end=\"76\">3D mammography<\/strong>, is a mammography-based imaging technique that uses <strong data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"148\">low-dose X-rays<\/strong> to acquire a <strong data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"212\" data-is-only-node=\"\">three-dimensional reconstruction of the breast<\/strong>. The breast is imaged as a series of <strong data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"265\">thin slices<\/strong>, which are then reconstructed and combined to form a volumetric representation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"347\" data-end=\"513\">It is used as a complement to conventional mammography to help <strong data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"446\">clarify diagnostic uncertainties<\/strong> and improve lesion detection, particularly in dense breast tissue.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"734\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">During the examination, the breast is <strong data-start=\"553\" data-end=\"594\">lightly compressed between two plates<\/strong>, similar to standard mammography. The procedure requires <strong data-start=\"652\" data-end=\"688\">no medication or contrast medium<\/strong> and does not require any special preparation.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Breast Ultrasound<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"335\">This examination uses <strong data-start=\"22\" data-end=\"42\">ultrasound waves<\/strong>, emitted by a probe in direct contact with the skin. As the waves are reflected differently by the various tissues they encounter, they allow visualization of the <strong data-start=\"206\" data-end=\"226\">breast structure<\/strong>, enabling the detection of abnormalities and the differentiation between <strong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"334\">solid and fluid-filled lesions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"337\" data-end=\"560\">Breast ultrasound may be performed as a complement to mammography, at the discretion of the radiologist, particularly in women with <strong data-start=\"469\" data-end=\"504\">dense (glandular) breast tissue<\/strong>, where mammographic interpretation may be more limited.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"562\" data-end=\"752\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The examination is <strong data-start=\"581\" data-end=\"617\">safe, painless, and non-invasive<\/strong>, and does not involve the use of ionizing radiation. It also does not require the administration of any medication or contrast medium.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"38\" data-end=\"233\">Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is performed using a <strong data-start=\"92\" data-end=\"118\">cylinder-shaped device<\/strong> that generates a <strong data-start=\"136\" data-end=\"161\">strong magnetic field<\/strong> and uses <strong data-start=\"171\" data-end=\"186\">radio waves<\/strong> to produce highly detailed images of the body.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"235\" data-end=\"395\">It is used as an <strong data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"287\">advanced diagnostic examination<\/strong> and is particularly indicated for <strong data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"344\">high-risk patients<\/strong> and for further diagnostic evaluation when needed.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"397\" data-end=\"645\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">For the examination, a <strong data-start=\"420\" data-end=\"469\">contrast medium is administered intravenously<\/strong>. The patient lies <strong data-start=\"488\" data-end=\"537\">prone on a table that slides into the scanner<\/strong>, while the breasts are positioned within a dedicated <strong data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"614\">coil-shaped support<\/strong> to optimize image acquisition.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interventional Diagnostics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When imaging reveals a suspicious lesion, a <strong>minimally invasive procedure<\/strong> is performed to obtain cells or tissue for definitive diagnosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div id=\"block_6a296c85384ee\" class=\"accordion-block acf-block\">\n\t\t<div class=\"my-4 lg:my-6\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Needle Aspiration (Cytological Sampling)<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"46\" data-end=\"312\">Needle aspiration consists of collecting a small number of cells from a suspected lesion using a <strong data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"158\">fine needle<\/strong>, which the radiologist inserts into the lesion under <strong data-start=\"212\" data-end=\"235\">ultrasound guidance<\/strong>, while continuously monitoring the needle position on a screen in real time.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"314\" data-end=\"417\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The collected cells are then examined by the <strong data-start=\"359\" data-end=\"381\">anatomopathologist<\/strong> through a <strong data-start=\"392\" data-end=\"416\">cytological analysis<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Needle Biopsy (Histological Sampling)<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"43\" data-end=\"288\">Needle biopsy consists of collecting a <strong data-start=\"82\" data-end=\"99\">tissue sample<\/strong> from a suspected lesion. The radiologist uses a <strong data-start=\"148\" data-end=\"171\">larger-gauge needle<\/strong>, which is inserted into the lesion to obtain small fragments of tissue; therefore, <strong data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"287\">local anesthesia is required<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"290\" data-end=\"394\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The collected tissue is then examined by the <strong data-start=\"335\" data-end=\"357\">anatomopathologist<\/strong> through a <strong data-start=\"368\" data-end=\"393\">histological analysis<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Needle Biopsy with Mammotome Device<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"41\" data-end=\"280\">This is a <strong data-start=\"51\" data-end=\"102\">computer-assisted vacuum-assisted needle biopsy<\/strong> that uses a specialized <strong data-start=\"127\" data-end=\"148\">aspiration system<\/strong>, allowing the radiologist to obtain multiple tissue samples without the need to remove and reinsert the needle for each collection.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"282\" data-end=\"418\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The procedure is performed under the guidance of <strong data-start=\"331\" data-end=\"361\">mammography or MRI imaging<\/strong> and requires the administration of <strong data-start=\"397\" data-end=\"417\">local anesthesia<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Tumor Characterization<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"28\" data-end=\"219\">Cellular or tissue samples are analyzed by the <strong data-start=\"75\" data-end=\"97\">anatomopathologist<\/strong>, who, using specialized methods, confirms the presence of a tumor and identifies the key features required for diagnosis.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"221\" data-end=\"320\">Tumor characterization occurs on two main levels: <strong data-start=\"271\" data-end=\"301\">morphological-histological<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"319\">molecular<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1h3hhpu\" data-start=\"327\" data-end=\"374\">Morphological-Histological Characterization<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"376\" data-end=\"466\">This analysis determines the <strong data-start=\"405\" data-end=\"428\">cell type of origin<\/strong> of the tumor, distinguishing between:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"468\" data-end=\"645\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1wxi9vg\" data-start=\"468\" data-end=\"554\"><strong data-start=\"470\" data-end=\"491\">Lobular carcinoma<\/strong>, originating from the lobules responsible for milk production;<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"kuwpkb\" data-start=\"555\" data-end=\"645\"><strong data-start=\"557\" data-end=\"577\">Ductal carcinoma<\/strong>, originating from the milk ducts that transport milk to the nipple.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"976\">It also establishes whether the tumor is <strong data-start=\"688\" data-end=\"714\">non-invasive (in situ)<\/strong> or <strong data-start=\"718\" data-end=\"730\">invasive<\/strong>, based on its ability to extend beyond the site of origin. Invasive tumors\u2014of which ductal carcinomas are the most common (<strong data-start=\"854\" data-end=\"873\">70\u201380% of cases<\/strong>)\u2014are then classified into <strong data-start=\"900\" data-end=\"927\">Stage I, II, III, or IV<\/strong>, according to disease extent and aggressiveness.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1e7nhar\" data-start=\"983\" data-end=\"1013\">Molecular Characterization<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1015\" data-end=\"1334\">Molecular analysis evaluates the presence of specific <strong data-start=\"1069\" data-end=\"1104\">cellular receptors and proteins<\/strong> that regulate tumor behavior and growth. The type and expression levels of these receptors provide information on tumor aggressiveness and guide treatment selection, as several therapies act by targeting these molecular pathways.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1336\" data-end=\"1378\">In particular, the following are assessed:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1570\">\n<li data-section-id=\"16katmc\" data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1470\"><strong data-start=\"1382\" data-end=\"1441\">Hormone receptors (estrogen and progesterone receptors)<\/strong>, which bind female hormones;<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1upx9sw\" data-start=\"1471\" data-end=\"1570\"><strong data-start=\"1473\" data-end=\"1534\">HER2 receptors (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2)<\/strong>, involved in cell growth signaling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1750\">In addition, the <strong data-start=\"1589\" data-end=\"1618\">Ki-67 proliferation index<\/strong> is measured, indicating the percentage of tumor cells actively dividing; higher values are associated with more aggressive disease.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1752\" data-end=\"2019\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Finally, advanced <strong data-start=\"1770\" data-end=\"1791\">genomic profiling<\/strong> may identify mutations across multiple genes that contributed to tumor development and may be actionable with targeted therapies. Among the most frequently assessed mutations are those in the <strong data-start=\"1984\" data-end=\"2018\">BRCA1, BRCA2, and PIK3CA genes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"therapy\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Therapy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After diagnostic confirmation, a <strong>multidisciplinary team<\/strong> evaluates tumor type, location, stage, patient age, clinical condition, and medical history in order to define an <strong>individualized treatment plan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During the first consultation, the patient is informed of the diagnosis and the proposed therapeutic strategy. Treatment options may include <strong>local therapies<\/strong> (surgery and radiotherapy) and <strong>systemic therapies<\/strong> (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy), which can be used alone or in combination. In selected cases, <strong>neoadjuvant therapy<\/strong> may be administered before surgery to reduce tumor size.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After surgery, the resected tissue undergoes <strong>pathological and molecular analysis<\/strong>. The multidisciplinary team then reconvenes to define the subsequent therapeutic steps. The patient is subsequently informed of the final results and of the recommended <strong>adjuvant treatment plan<\/strong>, which may include pharmacological therapy and\/or radiotherapy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For patients with particularly aggressive or treatment-resistant tumors, participation in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/clinical-research-unit-cru\/\">clinical trials<\/a><\/strong> evaluating experimental therapies may be considered and discussed within the multidisciplinary team and with the patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div id=\"block_6a296c8538607\" class=\"accordion-block acf-block\">\n\t\t<div class=\"my-4 lg:my-6\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Surgery<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"13\" data-end=\"482\">At the time surgery is scheduled, the surgeon provides the patient with a detailed explanation of the proposed procedure. The surgical decision is based on several factors, including the <strong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"247\">tumor\u2019s degree of aggressiveness and extent<\/strong>, the <strong data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"308\">patient\u2019s clinical characteristics and expectations<\/strong>, and the <strong data-start=\"318\" data-end=\"343\">risk of complications<\/strong>. The objective is always to ensure <strong data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"410\">optimal oncological control<\/strong> while achieving the best possible <strong data-start=\"445\" data-end=\"481\">aesthetic and functional outcome<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"877\">Because breast cancer typically spreads through the <strong data-start=\"536\" data-end=\"556\">lymphatic system<\/strong>, intraoperative assessment of <strong data-start=\"587\" data-end=\"617\">axillary lymph node status<\/strong> is performed. This is done through the identification of the <strong data-start=\"679\" data-end=\"702\">sentinel lymph node<\/strong>, which is the lymph node closest to the tumor. If the sentinel lymph node is found to be involved, the surgeon may proceed with removal of the remaining axillary lymph nodes.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"1176\">Depending on the clinical situation, surgery may consist of a <strong data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"989\">breast-conserving procedure (quadrantectomy)<\/strong>, involving removal of the tumor with a margin of healthy tissue, or a <strong data-start=\"1060\" data-end=\"1074\">mastectomy<\/strong>, involving complete removal of the breast, with or without preservation of the nipple-areola complex.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1178\" data-end=\"1401\">To minimize postoperative deformities, <strong data-start=\"1217\" data-end=\"1250\">onco-plastic breast reshaping<\/strong> is performed after quadrantectomy, or <strong data-start=\"1289\" data-end=\"1314\">breast reconstruction<\/strong> is carried out after mastectomy, either during the same procedure or at a later stage.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1403\" data-end=\"1752\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The <strong data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1436\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> is also the <strong data-start=\"1449\" data-end=\"1480\">only cancer center in Italy<\/strong> where mastectomy can be performed using a <strong data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1552\">robotic surgical approach<\/strong>. This technique allows for precise tissue preservation, including in selected cases the nipple-areola complex, and results in a smaller, less visible scar, typically concealed in the axillary region.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Breast Reconstruction<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"260\">At the <strong data-start=\"34\" data-end=\"63\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong>, breast reconstruction is an integral part of the treatment pathway, as it plays a key role in both the <strong data-start=\"168\" data-end=\"213\">physical and psychological rehabilitation<\/strong> of women undergoing surgery for breast cancer.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"262\" data-end=\"480\">The type of reconstruction depends on the extent of the surgical procedure and may be performed either <strong data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"430\">at the same time as the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction)<\/strong> or at a later stage (<strong data-start=\"452\" data-end=\"478\">delayed reconstruction<\/strong>).<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"725\">Immediate reconstruction may be completed during the same surgical procedure or carried out in two stages: first, the placement of a <strong data-start=\"615\" data-end=\"634\">tissue expander<\/strong> at the time of mastectomy, followed\u2014after several months\u2014by <strong data-start=\"695\" data-end=\"724\">definitive reconstruction<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"727\" data-end=\"1107\">Reconstruction can be performed using <strong data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"789\">prosthetic materials<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"791\" data-end=\"813\">autologous tissues<\/strong> (such as skin, subcutaneous tissue, and\/or muscle), or a <strong data-start=\"871\" data-end=\"905\">combination of both techniques<\/strong>. The choice depends on multiple factors, including breast volume and shape, the extent of tissue removal, ongoing oncological treatments, medical history, body characteristics, and patient preferences.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1109\" data-end=\"1277\">Reconstruction with <strong data-start=\"1129\" data-end=\"1150\">silicone implants<\/strong> is the most commonly used approach due to its rapidity, lower invasiveness, and adaptability to different breast morphologies.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1485\">In selected cases, a <strong data-start=\"1300\" data-end=\"1319\">tissue expander<\/strong> is used: a temporary silicone device that is gradually filled with saline to progressively stretch the tissues, creating sufficient space for the definitive implant.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1678\">For the correction of small volume defects, <strong data-start=\"1531\" data-end=\"1546\">lipofilling<\/strong> may be performed, which involves harvesting fat from the patient\u2019s own body through liposuction and reinjecting it into the breast.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1680\" data-end=\"1811\">To achieve optimal symmetry, procedures may also be performed on the <strong data-start=\"1749\" data-end=\"1781\">contralateral healthy breast<\/strong> using oncoplastic techniques.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1813\" data-end=\"2182\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">When the breast has been completely removed, <strong data-start=\"1858\" data-end=\"1883\">nipple reconstruction<\/strong> can be performed using local skin flaps shaped to recreate the nipple, or by partial grafting from the contralateral nipple. The <strong data-start=\"2013\" data-end=\"2023\">areola<\/strong> may be reconstructed using pigmented skin grafts from the opposite areola or other body sites, or through <strong data-start=\"2130\" data-end=\"2151\">medical tattooing<\/strong> to restore natural coloration.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Radiotherapy<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"18\" data-end=\"404\">Surgical treatment is, in most cases, complemented by <strong data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"88\">radiotherapy<\/strong>, which uses <strong data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"126\">high-energy radiation<\/strong> to eliminate any residual cancer cells in the breast tissue and reduce the risk of disease recurrence. After breast-conserving surgery, only the <strong data-start=\"272\" data-end=\"299\">remaining breast tissue<\/strong> is irradiated. Following a mastectomy, radiotherapy is generally not required, except in selected cases.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"406\" data-end=\"587\">The <strong data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"434\">radiation oncologist<\/strong>, in collaboration with the <strong data-start=\"462\" data-end=\"483\">medical physicist<\/strong> and the <strong data-start=\"492\" data-end=\"524\">radiation therapy technician<\/strong>, defines the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"589\" data-end=\"752\">Radiotherapy is usually initiated between <strong data-start=\"631\" data-end=\"663\">45 and 90 days after surgery<\/strong>, or approximately <strong data-start=\"682\" data-end=\"735\">3 to 4 weeks after the completion of chemotherapy<\/strong>, when indicated.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"754\" data-end=\"1167\">Treatment is performed on an outpatient basis and typically involves <strong data-start=\"823\" data-end=\"865\">5 sessions per week (Monday to Friday)<\/strong> for a total of <strong data-start=\"881\" data-end=\"899\">15\u201320 sessions<\/strong>, over approximately <strong data-start=\"920\" data-end=\"936\">3 to 4 weeks<\/strong>. A <strong data-start=\"940\" data-end=\"962\">linear accelerator<\/strong> is used, which rotates around the patient to deliver radiation precisely to the target area. Each session lasts about <strong data-start=\"1081\" data-end=\"1101\">10 to 20 minutes<\/strong>, although the actual radiation delivery takes only a few minutes.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1365\">In selected low-risk patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery, <strong data-start=\"1237\" data-end=\"1267\">partial breast irradiation<\/strong> may be indicated. This approach consists of <strong data-start=\"1312\" data-end=\"1364\">5 treatment sessions over approximately one week<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1367\" data-end=\"1556\">At the <strong data-start=\"1374\" data-end=\"1403\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong>, state-of-the-art radiotherapy technologies are available, allowing highly precise treatment delivery with reduced toxicity and shorter treatment times:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1558\" data-end=\"1893\">\n<li data-section-id=\"pok5xk\" data-start=\"1558\" data-end=\"1626\"><strong data-start=\"1560\" data-end=\"1589\">3D conformal radiotherapy<\/strong>, shaped according to the tumor site;<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"fppimt\" data-start=\"1627\" data-end=\"1762\"><strong data-start=\"1629\" data-end=\"1672\">Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)<\/strong>, which allows highly precise dose distribution while sparing surrounding healthy tissues;<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"vzjnhg\" data-start=\"1763\" data-end=\"1893\"><strong data-start=\"1765\" data-end=\"1801\">Image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT)<\/strong>, which tracks patient and organ movement (such as breathing) to improve treatment accuracy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1895\" data-end=\"2179\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">In addition, the <strong data-start=\"1912\" data-end=\"1941\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> is among the few centers in Europe equipped with <strong data-start=\"1991\" data-end=\"2018\">two Tomotherapy systems<\/strong>, enabling highly precise helical radiotherapy, as well as a <strong data-start=\"2079\" data-end=\"2110\">TrueBeam linear accelerator<\/strong>, which allows highly targeted treatments with reduced session times.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Hormone Therapy<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-38\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-38\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-38\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-74\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" data-conversation-screenshot-content=\"\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"dac47d05-f95b-4df5-ad1d-d218d404e93d\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"21\" data-end=\"294\">Hormone therapy involves the administration of drugs that block or reduce the activity of <strong data-start=\"111\" data-end=\"123\">estrogen<\/strong>, hormones normally produced by the female body, which in approximately <strong data-start=\"195\" data-end=\"224\">two out of three patients<\/strong> are responsible for the development and progression of breast cancer.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"296\" data-end=\"646\">It is therefore indicated for <strong data-start=\"326\" data-end=\"370\">hormone receptor\u2013positive breast cancers<\/strong>, in which <strong data-start=\"381\" data-end=\"423\">estrogen and\/or progesterone receptors<\/strong> are present at high levels. In these tumors, hormone therapy (also called <strong data-start=\"498\" data-end=\"519\">endocrine therapy<\/strong>) works by preventing cancer cells from being stimulated by female hormones, thereby inhibiting their growth and proliferation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"648\" data-end=\"721\">Hormone therapy is most commonly administered <strong data-start=\"694\" data-end=\"704\">orally<\/strong> and may be used:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"723\" data-end=\"930\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1re38mu\" data-start=\"723\" data-end=\"789\">as <strong data-start=\"728\" data-end=\"751\">neoadjuvant therapy<\/strong>, to reduce tumor size before surgery;<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"r22nia\" data-start=\"790\" data-end=\"930\">more frequently as <strong data-start=\"811\" data-end=\"831\">adjuvant therapy<\/strong>, after surgery and any chemotherapy and\/or radiotherapy, to reduce the risk of disease recurrence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"932\" data-end=\"1015\">In the adjuvant setting, treatment is typically continued for <strong data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1014\">at least 5 years<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1049njv\" data-start=\"1022\" data-end=\"1050\">Types of Hormone Therapy<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1052\" data-end=\"1108\">Hormone therapy includes three main categories of drugs:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1110\" data-end=\"2012\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1y8ue59\" data-start=\"1110\" data-end=\"1403\"><strong data-start=\"1112\" data-end=\"1149\">Anti-estrogens (e.g., Tamoxifen):<\/strong><br data-start=\"1149\" data-end=\"1152\" \/>These drugs block the binding of estrogen to cancer cells. They are often indicated for patients who have not yet undergone menopause. Tamoxifen is typically taken as <strong data-start=\"1321\" data-end=\"1364\">one tablet per day for at least 5 years<\/strong>, and in some cases up to <strong data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1402\">10 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"b4d1h6\" data-start=\"1405\" data-end=\"1718\"><strong data-start=\"1407\" data-end=\"1469\">Aromatase inhibitors (Letrozole, Anastrozole, Exemestane):<\/strong><br data-start=\"1469\" data-end=\"1472\" \/>These drugs reduce estrogen production by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme. They are generally used in <strong data-start=\"1576\" data-end=\"1600\">postmenopausal women<\/strong>, and in selected cases also in premenopausal patients. They are taken as <strong data-start=\"1674\" data-end=\"1717\">one tablet per day for at least 5 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"719gum\" data-start=\"1720\" data-end=\"2012\" data-is-last-node=\"\"><strong data-start=\"1722\" data-end=\"1779\">LHRH analogues (Triptorelin, Leuprorelin, Goserelin):<\/strong><br data-start=\"1779\" data-end=\"1782\" \/>These drugs induce a temporary \u201cartificial menopause\u201d and are used mainly in <strong data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"1884\">premenopausal women<\/strong>, often in combination with anti-estrogens or aromatase inhibitors. They are administered as <strong data-start=\"1977\" data-end=\"2011\">injections every 1 to 3 months<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Chemotherapy<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The term chemotherapy refers to the<\/span><b> drugs that eliminate cancer cells<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Taking advantage of their faster reproduction rate than healthy ones. Because it interferes with the replication mechanisms of cells, chemotherapy also damages the body&#8217;s healthy cells causing major <\/span><b>side effects <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">that fortunately disappear once the treatment is over.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chemotherapy is generally indicated in cases where there is a&#8217;<\/span><b>high probability that the tumor has spread in the body to sites other than the breast<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (metastasis) or that it may<\/span><b> recur over time<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (recurrence).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It can be used to <\/span><b>reduce tumor volume before surgery <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(neoadjuvant chemotherapy), to <\/span><b>reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery and radiotherapy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (adjuvant chemotherapy) or to <\/span><b>slow down the progression of the disease<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when it is in an advanced stage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In most cases, chemotherapy is administered by<\/span><b> intravenous injection<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, less frequently orally. The duration of each administration, which is performed on an outpatient basis, can vary from minutes to hours depending on the drugs used.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In fact, there are many chemotherapy drugs, which are often used in combination.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>therapy is carried out in cycles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: each cycle lasts for a few days and is followed by a few weeks of rest. The number of cycles depends on the type of tumor and, of course, the response to the drugs, which can vary greatly from patient to patient.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Biological Therapies  <\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"26\" data-end=\"430\">Biological therapies, also known as <strong data-start=\"62\" data-end=\"96\">molecularly targeted therapies<\/strong> or <strong data-start=\"100\" data-end=\"122\">targeted therapies<\/strong>, are treatments designed to act specifically on defined <strong data-start=\"179\" data-end=\"200\">molecular targets<\/strong> such as receptors, growth factors, or enzymes. These targets, predominantly found in cancer cells, play a key role in <strong data-start=\"319\" data-end=\"347\">uncontrolled cell growth<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"349\" data-end=\"365\">tumor spread<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"407\">resistance to conventional therapies<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"413\" data-end=\"429\">angiogenesis<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"432\" data-end=\"918\">One of the main targets of biological therapies is the <strong data-start=\"487\" data-end=\"503\">HER2 protein<\/strong> (the receptor that binds epidermal growth factor on cancer cells). The drug <strong data-start=\"580\" data-end=\"595\">Trastuzumab<\/strong> acts by blocking HER2 function, thereby inhibiting tumor proliferation. This therapy is indicated only for <strong data-start=\"703\" data-end=\"735\">HER2-positive breast cancers<\/strong>, in both early and advanced stages. It is administered <strong data-start=\"791\" data-end=\"826\">intravenously or subcutaneously<\/strong>, typically every <strong data-start=\"844\" data-end=\"877\">1 to 3 weeks for up to 1 year<\/strong>, often in combination with chemotherapy.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"920\" data-end=\"1202\">Another anti-HER2 agent is <strong data-start=\"947\" data-end=\"961\">Pertuzumab<\/strong>, which also targets the HER2 receptor. It is administered <strong data-start=\"1020\" data-end=\"1051\">intravenously every 3 weeks<\/strong>, in combination with Trastuzumab and chemotherapy in advanced disease, and may also be used in patients at <strong data-start=\"1159\" data-end=\"1201\">high risk of recurrence before surgery<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1542\">A further therapeutic target is <strong data-start=\"1236\" data-end=\"1252\">angiogenesis<\/strong>, the process through which tumors form new blood vessels to grow and spread. The drug <strong data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1354\">Bevacizumab<\/strong> inhibits the <strong data-start=\"1368\" data-end=\"1413\">vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)<\/strong> and is used in combination with chemotherapy in <strong data-start=\"1462\" data-end=\"1484\">metastatic disease<\/strong>. It is administered <strong data-start=\"1505\" data-end=\"1541\">intravenously every 2 to 3 weeks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1907\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Other biological agents target the <strong data-start=\"1579\" data-end=\"1597\">CDK4\/6 cyclins<\/strong>, enzymes that regulate cell cycle progression. When overactivated, they promote rapid tumor growth and division. <strong data-start=\"1711\" data-end=\"1732\">CDK4\/6 inhibitors<\/strong>, used in combination with hormone therapy in <strong data-start=\"1778\" data-end=\"1844\">advanced or metastatic hormone receptor\u2013positive breast cancer<\/strong>, enhance treatment efficacy and help slow disease progression.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Immunotherapy<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"19\" data-end=\"164\">Immunotherapy drugs are designed to <strong>enhance or restore the immune system<\/strong>\u2019s ability to recognize and attack abnormal cells, including tumor cells.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"166\" data-end=\"627\">Although oncological research in this field has been highly active for several years, in breast cancer only <strong data-start=\"274\" data-end=\"290\">Atezolizumab<\/strong> is currently approved. Its target is the so-called <strong data-start=\"342\" data-end=\"364\">immune checkpoints<\/strong>, molecules located on the surface of <strong data-start=\"402\" data-end=\"419\">T lymphocytes<\/strong> (cells of the immune system) that can inhibit immune responses. By blocking these checkpoints, the drug effectively removes the \u201cbrakes\u201d on the immune system, enabling it to recognize and attack tumor cells.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"629\" data-end=\"909\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Atezolizumab is indicated in selected cases of <strong data-start=\"676\" data-end=\"709\">triple-negative breast cancer<\/strong> (i.e., tumors that are neither hormone receptor\u2013positive nor HER2-positive), particularly in <strong data-start=\"803\" data-end=\"837\">advanced or metastatic disease<\/strong>. It is administered <strong data-start=\"858\" data-end=\"908\">intravenously in combination with chemotherapy<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"ongoing-support\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Ongoing Support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the Candiolo Cancer Institute, patients receive continuous support&nbsp;<strong>before, during, and after treatment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our multidisciplinary teams accompany each patient throughout the entire diagnostic, therapeutic, and recovery pathway, providing personalized care and support at every stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div id=\"block_6a296c8538835\" class=\"accordion-block acf-block\">\n\t\t<div class=\"my-4 lg:my-6\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Side Effects of Breast Cancer Treatments<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"400\">All breast cancer treatments may be associated with <strong>side effects<\/strong> that can affect quality of life to varying degrees. However, many of these effects <strong>can be mitigated<\/strong> <strong>and<\/strong> in some cases <strong>prevented<\/strong> through appropriate supportive treatments and<strong> lifestyle measures.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"402\" data-end=\"635\">At the Breast Unit of the <strong data-start=\"428\" data-end=\"457\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong>, physicians and nurses within the multidisciplinary team provide comprehensive support to help patients manage treatment-related side effects throughout the entire care pathway.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"637\" data-end=\"665\">Common side effects include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"667\" data-end=\"1980\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1u8dyr9\" data-start=\"667\" data-end=\"921\"><strong data-start=\"669\" data-end=\"684\">Lymphedema:<\/strong> a possible consequence of axillary lymph node removal, characterized by lymph fluid accumulation leading to swelling of the arm and\/or hand. A <strong data-start=\"828\" data-end=\"847\">physiotherapist<\/strong> provides specific rehabilitation and management strategies when needed.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"ivkrh2\" data-start=\"922\" data-end=\"1132\"><strong data-start=\"924\" data-end=\"941\">Osteoporosis:<\/strong> associated particularly with hormone therapy. A <strong data-start=\"990\" data-end=\"1005\">physiatrist<\/strong> is available for prevention and management, and the oncologist may prescribe specific protective medications when indicated.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"jwvnap\" data-start=\"1133\" data-end=\"1350\"><strong data-start=\"1135\" data-end=\"1158\">Sexual dysfunction:<\/strong> including vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and reduced libido. The oncologist and gynecologist may recommend <strong data-start=\"1265\" data-end=\"1285\">local treatments<\/strong> to alleviate these symptoms, often related to hormone therapy.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"b49cse\" data-start=\"1351\" data-end=\"1576\"><strong data-start=\"1353\" data-end=\"1369\">Infertility:<\/strong> chemotherapy and hormone therapy may impair reproductive function in women of childbearing age. Patients are informed of this risk at diagnosis and receive dedicated <strong data-start=\"1536\" data-end=\"1573\">fertility preservation counseling<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"e3a55\" data-start=\"1577\" data-end=\"1738\"><strong data-start=\"1579\" data-end=\"1623\">Nausea, vomiting, and taste alterations:<\/strong> mainly associated with chemotherapy. A <strong data-start=\"1663\" data-end=\"1679\">nutritionist<\/strong> provides dietary guidance to help reduce these symptoms.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1mmtivt\" data-start=\"1739\" data-end=\"1980\" data-is-last-node=\"\"><strong data-start=\"1741\" data-end=\"1760\">Cardiotoxicity:<\/strong> potential cardiac effects of certain chemotherapy agents. Cardiac function is assessed before treatment initiation, and any treatment-related cardiac issues are managed in collaboration with the <strong data-start=\"1956\" data-end=\"1979\">Cardiology Division<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Psychological Support<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"194\">When needed, qualified <strong>psychological support is offered<\/strong> to patients and their family members at all stages of the disease, starting from the time of initial diagnosis.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"196\" data-end=\"224\">This support helps patients:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"226\" data-end=\"459\">\n<li data-section-id=\"460mrz\" data-start=\"226\" data-end=\"317\"><strong>reorganize their lives<\/strong> without allowing the disease to dominate their daily experience<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"46i1od\" data-start=\"318\" data-end=\"378\"><strong>accept changes<\/strong> in body image and learn to adapt to them<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"p3iped\" data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"459\"><strong>communicate more effectively<\/strong> with family members, especially young children<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"461\" data-end=\"707\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">In addition to individual consultations with a <strong data-start=\"508\" data-end=\"529\">psycho-oncologist<\/strong>, patients may also participate in <strong data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"596\">psychological support groups<\/strong>, which provide an opportunity to share experiences with others who are facing or have faced a similar journey.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Genetic Counseling<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"24\" data-end=\"308\">The Breast Unit at the <strong data-start=\"47\" data-end=\"76\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> includes an outpatient <strong data-start=\"100\" data-end=\"129\">genetic counseling clinic<\/strong>, where a geneticist specialized in hereditary and familial breast and ovarian cancers provides counseling for <strong data-start=\"240\" data-end=\"266\">cancer risk assessment<\/strong> and, when indicated, <strong data-start=\"288\" data-end=\"307\">genetic testing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"310\" data-end=\"458\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The Breast Unit also offers a structured <strong data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"375\">surveillance program<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"380\" data-end=\"406\">personalized follow-up<\/strong> for women identified as having a high genetic risk.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Direct line to Direct Line to Specialists<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<div class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-45\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-45\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:d1dfff5a-bfdb-45f8-b983-eae39cedb451-45\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-88\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" data-conversation-screenshot-content=\"\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"91dd4151-73d6-40ed-ab14-6fc239526f72\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"32\" data-end=\"210\">To ensure timely and direct support and provide prompt answers to concerns and questions, a dedicated helpline is available at the <strong data-start=\"163\" data-end=\"192\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> for all patients.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"212\" data-end=\"411\">From <strong data-start=\"217\" data-end=\"242\">Monday through Friday<\/strong>, between <strong data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"279\">8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.<\/strong>, patients can contact the <a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/oncology-day-hospital\/\">Oncology Day Hospital<\/a> Secretariat at <strong data-start=\"343\" data-end=\"363\">+39 011 993 3775<\/strong>, reporting the need for an urgent consultation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"413\" data-end=\"553\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The patient is then promptly connected with their specialist physician, ensuring clear communication, timely answers, and immediate support.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Continuing and Palliative Care<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"36\" data-end=\"221\">The cancer patient is a person with complex needs who requires multidisciplinary support, not only for the cancer disease itself but also for all related clinical and supportive issues.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"223\" data-end=\"461\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">At the <strong data-start=\"230\" data-end=\"259\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong>, patients who require or request it can access specialists from different areas to receive <strong data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"374\">nutritional support<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"376\" data-end=\"393\">physiotherapy<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"395\" data-end=\"414\">pain management<\/strong>, and treatment of other associated conditions.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Social Work Service<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"90\" data-end=\"426\">The Social Service Department of the <strong data-start=\"127\" data-end=\"156\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> provides information and orientation interviews for patients and their families on how to access local services and obtain welfare and social security benefits provided by law, including disability support, assistance for aids and prostheses, and work leave provisions.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"428\" data-end=\"562\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The service is available on <strong data-start=\"456\" data-end=\"482\">Wednesdays and Fridays<\/strong>, from <strong data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"515\">9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.<\/strong>, and can be contacted at <strong data-start=\"541\" data-end=\"561\">+39 011 993 3059<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Follow-up<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"15\" data-end=\"284\">With the conclusion of the treatment course, the follow-up period begins. During this phase, a series of clinical examinations and medical visits are performed to monitor the effectiveness of therapies, assess possible side effects, and evaluate the patient\u2019s recovery.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"286\" data-end=\"530\">Follow-up visits are particularly important for the early detection of any disease recurrence, allowing timely intervention when necessary. For patients, they also represent an important opportunity for dialogue with their specialist physician.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"532\" data-end=\"787\">Follow-up appointments are scheduled by the <strong data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"602\">Breast Unit oncologist<\/strong>, who evaluates the patient\u2019s clinical condition and reviews the results of any required tests. These visits are planned on a regular basis and generally continue for <strong data-start=\"769\" data-end=\"786\">5 to 10 years<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"789\" data-end=\"844\">The breast cancer follow-up program typically includes:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"846\" data-end=\"1051\">\n<li data-section-id=\"npbzqd\" data-start=\"846\" data-end=\"946\">A <strong data-start=\"850\" data-end=\"910\">clinical visit every 3 to 6 months for the first 5 years<\/strong>, then <strong data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"943\">once a year thereafter<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1xqqzau\" data-start=\"947\" data-end=\"1051\">An <strong data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"972\">annual mammogram<\/strong>, with additional imaging studies when considered necessary by the radiologist.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1053\" data-end=\"1286\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">If recurrence is suspected at any time, the general practitioner or specialist may prescribe further diagnostic investigations, including <strong data-start=\"1191\" data-end=\"1285\">chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, bone scintigraphy, CT scan, PET scan, and tumor markers<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"multi-disciplinary-team\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Multi Disciplinary Team<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every cancer requires a&nbsp;<strong>multidisciplinary approach<\/strong>&nbsp;at all stages of disease management. At the Candiolo Cancer Institute, this is provided by a team of specialists from various clinical and surgical departments, known as the&nbsp;<strong>GIC<\/strong>, Interdisciplinary Care Group (or MDT). The GIC ensures that each patient is supported throughout the diagnostic and therapeutic process, including arranging and coordinating examinations and maintaining communication with the patient and their family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For each patient, the GIC (MDT) defines and shares a personalized care pathway based not only on the type and stage of the tumor but also on the patient\u2019s individual characteristics. The goal is to achieve the best possible outcomes both oncologically and functionally, while maintaining a high quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Group<strong>&nbsp;also collaborates closely with the Institute\u2019s researchers<\/strong>&nbsp;to provide patients with rapid access to the latest innovations in screening, diagnosis, and treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"clinical-divisions\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Clinical Divisions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The diagnostic and therapeutic pathway for breast cancer at the <strong>Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> involves several clinical divisions, ensuring an integrated and multidisciplinary approach throughout all phases of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.<br \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/breast-surgery\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5160\">Breast Surgery<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/breast-unit\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5171\">Breast Unit<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/gynecologic-oncology-and-hereditary-tumors\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5119\">Gynecology Oncology and Hereditary Tumors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/medical-oncology\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5169\">Medical Oncology<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/anesthesia-and-resuscitation\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5185\">Anesthesia and Resuscitation<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/reconstructive-plastic-surgery\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5159\">Reconstructive Plastic Surgery<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/nuclear-medicine\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5106\">Nuclear Medicine<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/radiotherapy\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5104\">Radiotherapy<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/radiodiagnostics\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5101\">Radiodiagnostics<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/medical-area\/pathologic-anatomy\/\" type=\"medical-area\" id=\"5118\">Anatomical Pathology<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"clinical-studies\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Clinical Studies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Researchers at the <strong>Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> are currently involved in several national and international projects focused on breast cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the main objectives is to improve the accuracy of breast cancer diagnosis. To this end, new <strong>molecular markers<\/strong> are being investigated using<strong> state-of-the-art experimental methods<\/strong> on cells derived from tumor tissue donated by patients. These cells undergo various analyses, including the study of molecules involved in tumor growth, particularly the <strong>HER2 protein<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another key objective is to enhance the personalization of treatment for patients with <strong>hormone receptor\u2013positive breast cancer<\/strong>. In this context, a clinical trial is ongoing in which patients receive <strong>hormone therapy before surgery<\/strong>, following preoperative biopsy, in order to evaluate the ability of treatment to effectively inhibit tumor proliferation. Patients are also offered the opportunity to assess the <strong>molecular subtype of the tumor<\/strong> through advanced technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span  id=\"why-choose-us\" class=\"h2_anchor\"><\/span>Why Choose Us<\/h2>\n\n\n\t<div id=\"block_6a296c85388ae\" class=\"accordion-block acf-block\">\n\t\t<div class=\"my-4 lg:my-6\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Clinical Experience and Tailored Approach<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>Thanks to the large number of liver cancer cases treated each year, the Candiolo Cancer Institute is a\u00a0<strong>national reference<\/strong>\u00a0center for the care of this disease. This extensive experience allows us to manage even the most complex cases, always using a\u00a0<strong>personalized approach<\/strong>, tailored to the clinical and individual profile of each patient.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Imaging Technologies and Advanced Diagnostics<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"207\">Establishing the treatment plan always begins with an <strong data-start=\"54\" data-end=\"87\">accurate and timely diagnosis<\/strong>. Patients have access to <strong data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"154\">state-of-the-art imaging technologies<\/strong>, which allow a precise assessment of disease extent.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"209\" data-end=\"482\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">In addition, the <strong data-start=\"226\" data-end=\"255\">Candiolo Cancer Institute<\/strong> offers advanced and highly specialized laboratory investigations, including <strong data-start=\"332\" data-end=\"366\">molecular and genomic analyses<\/strong>, which are essential for identifying the biological characteristics of the tumor and guiding therapeutic decisions.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques and Multidisciplinarity<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>When appropriate, liver surgeries are performed using\u00a0<strong data-start=\"244\" data-end=\"268\">minimally invasive<\/strong>, laparoscopic or robotic\u00a0<strong data-start=\"244\" data-end=\"268\">techniques<\/strong>. These approaches involve the use of camera-equipped instruments introduced into the abdomen through small incisions, thus reducing surgical trauma.\u00a0<strong>Benefits<\/strong>\u00a0to the patient include\u00a0<strong>shorter hospital stay times, faster recovery, and lower risk of complications compared with traditional open surgery.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Clinical Research and Access to Trials<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p>As an IRCCS (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Healthcare), the Candiolo Cancer Institute combines clinical care with a strong focues on scientific research. Patients can be considered for\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/pathology\/breast-tumors\/#clinical-studies\">participation in active clinical trials<\/a><\/strong>, offering access to innovative therapies not yet available in standard practice. This integration of care and research is a distinctive strength that translates into tangible benefits for patients.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion group border-b border-white\/5\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"flex items-center cursor-pointer group-hover:text-blue-light group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-colors\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"rotate-90 text-blue-lighter group-[.accordion--open]:rotate-180 group-[.accordion--open]:text-red transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"18\" viewbox=\"0 0 500 500\" fill=\"currentColor\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<polygon points=\"250,60 100,400 400,400\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"font-bold ml-5\">Care and Support Every Step of the Way<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content max-h-0 overflow-hidden transition-all\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"pb-5 pl-[38px] pt-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>The Interdisciplinary Care Group\u00a0 (GIC or MDT) <a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/pathology\/breast-tumors\/#multi-disciplinary-team\"><strong>supports th<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/irccs.com\/en\/pathology\/cervical-cancer\/#multi-disciplinary-team\"><strong>e patient at every stage<\/strong><\/a>: from diagnosis, through treatment, to follow-up. Special attention is paid to<strong>\u00a0nutritional support, psychological health and reintegration into daily life.<\/strong>\u00a0The organization of checkups, examinations, and treatment is designed to ensure\u00a0<strong>continuity, serenity, and a humane, caring<\/strong>\u00a0approach to each patient\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5298","pathology","type-pathology","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - 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