Abstract

A mutation in a known hereditary breast cancer predisposition gene, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.1, is linked to between 5% and 10% of the 2.3 million breast cancer cases diagnosed annually2. The integration of genomics into the standard diagnostic pathways for breast cancer patients and the availability of targeted treatment approaches for those with hereditary breast cancer predisposition genes are two examples of the effects that chemotherapy has on breast cancer efficacy. These patients now require a different approach to care than they did a decade ago because of mutations. The most recent advances in systemic treatment for hereditary breast cancer are discussed in this review, as well as the challenges that must be overcome in the future to improve clinical outcomes for this particular subgroup