This study aims to investigate the diagnosis and treatment challenges, through analyzing the clinical characteristics, pathological features, treatment approaches, and prognostic factors of patients with pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC).

A retrospective review was conducted on 38 PABC patients treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2010 to December 2022. Data on clinical presentation, tumor pathology, treatment regimens, and outcomes were colleted and analyzed. Survival outcomes were assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis, and prognostic factors were evaluated through univariate and multivariate analyses.

All patients presented with breast masses, with additional symptoms reported in 21% of cases. Invasive ductal carcinoma was the predominant pathological type (97.37%). Chemotherapy, predominantly anthracycline-based regimens, was initiated in the second trimester or postpartum for most patients. Surgical interventions, including breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy, were performed at various gestational stages. The five-year overall survival (OS) rate was 81.58%. Univariate analysis identified the N stage and TNM stage as significant predictors of OS, though neither was independent factors in multivariate analysis. The timing of diagnosis (pregnancy or postpartum) did not significantly affect OS.

PABC exhibits aggressively pathological characteristics and requires individualized, multidisciplinary management to optimize outcomes. While survival rates are slightly lower than those of non-PABC populations, adherence to evidence-based guidelines may mitigate adverse outcomes. Future studies should focus on larger cohorts and molecular profiling to refine therapeutic approaches.