Circulating epithelial tumor cells in patients with metastatic breast cancer treated with bevacizumab

Circulating epithelial tumor cells (CTCs) in peripheral blood are an ideal source for the detection of disseminated tumor cells of an easy sampling procedure. Their prognostic significance has been demonstrated in metastatic breast carcinoma and has the potential to influence the clinical management of patients with breast cancer. The aims of the present study are the evaluation of the prevalence and kinetics of CTS before and after anti-angiogenic treatment with bevacizumab (Avastin) in patients with metastatic breast cancer.