Natural History of Untreated Breast Cancer(1805-1933); Comparison of Untreated and Treated Cases According to Histological Grade of Malignancy

Abstract

The author reports the follow-up of a case reported in two previous articles (Med J Aust, 1976, 1977) in which a patient with carcinoma of the breast experienced regression of metastases following intensive meditation.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

Age distribution was comparable to that seen in a large modern treated series. Nearly three-quarters of the cases had a history longer than one year, 24% more than 3 years, and 12% more than 5 years. No definite relationship was found between age and prognosis, although it is possible that the outlook for patients in the fifties may be slightly worse than for those in other age groups.

Clinical Characteristics

The vast majority of cases were advanced when first seen, 74.4% being in stage 4, 23.2% in stage 3, and only 2.4% in stage 2. There were no stage 1 cases.

Remission Characteristics

Spontaneous regression was not observed although fluctuation in growth rate of the primary tumour was noted in one patient.

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Clinical Treatment

Untreated

Additional Notes

Patients with breast cancer may survive for many years without specific treatment. The mean duration of life from onset of symptoms was 3 years: 18% survived 5 years, 3.6%, 10 years, and 0.8% 15 years. The longest survival was 18 years and 3 months. Three other patients survived over 13 years.