One-Year Local, Systemic and Axillary Recurrence Rate in Breast Cancer Patients with Negative Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer treatment has improved due to advancements in treatment, early identification, and imaging. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is the most effective staging technique for early breast cancer therapy, reducing morbidity and improving quality of life. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relative frequency of local, systemic, and axillary recurrence in breast cancer patients with a negative sentinel lymph node biopsy. Methods: The study involved breast cancer patients with negative sentinel lymph node biopsy who underwent surgery from 2012 to 2018 in Isfahan medical centers. Data analysis included age, local recurrence, axillary recurrence, systemic recurrence, mortality rate, disease-free survival rate, tumor histology, type of surgery, estrogen receptor status, progesterone and Her-2 receptor status and Ki-67 expression status. Findings: The study included 192 patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy with negative SLNB. After one year, two patients had local recurrence, one had axillary recurrence, and four had systemic recurrence. Two patients died, resulting in a 1.04 mortality rate. However, the disease-free survival rate was 95.31. Conclusion: In our study population, after one year of follow-up, the rates of axillary, local, and systemic recurrence were 0.52, 1.04, and 2.08, respectively. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.