Advances in Invasive Breast Cancer: Emerging Diagnostic Tools and Evolving Therapeutic Approaches
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Invasive breast cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. Despite therapeutic advances, early detection, tumor heterogeneity, and treatment resistance remain significant challenges. This review examines advances in diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing molecular characterization and precision medicine. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed to identify publications from 2016 to 2026 on breast cancer molecular classification, diagnosis, and treatment. 99 out of 192 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Molecular classification into luminal A, luminal B, HER2-positive, and triple-negative breast cancer has enabled personalized treatment. Next-generation sequencing, multigene assays, liquid biopsy, artificial intelligence-assisted imaging, and minimal residual disease monitoring improve risk stratification, diagnosis, and surveillance. Management integrates surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and systemic therapies. Endocrine treatments remain central to hormone receptor-positive disease, while HER2-targeted agents improve outcomes in HER2-positive cancers. PARP inhibitors and antibody–drug conjugates have expanded treatment options for selected patients with triple-negative disease. Molecular diagnostics and precision oncology are transforming breast cancer care. However, as resistance, recurrence, and tumor heterogeneity continue to limit long-term outcomes, further research into innovative diagnostics and individualized therapies is essential to improve treatment efficacy, survival, and life quality.
Source: Preprints.org
Authors: Alexandra Boboti, Christiana Charalambous
Language: English
Subfield: Cancer Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223805804