Breast cancer in elderly women: characteristics of the disease.

The records of 325 women aged over 70 years, with breast cancer were reviewed to identify the characteristics of the disease in elderly women and to determine the eventual effect of age on its management. Over 50% of patients were in the advanced stage (stage III or IV). The percentage of inoperable cases increased with greater delay between the onset of first symptoms and the first medical consultation (Chi-square (chi 2) = 42.8 P less than 0.001), but the delay time did not influence relative survival rates. Axillary lymph node status, stage of the disease and recurrences were the major factors influencing survival. Postoperative complications were analysed. Other, co-existing diseases were found in a significant number of patients (145, 44.6%); they did not influence long term results but increased postoperative mortality and morbidity. We conclude that breast cancer in elderly women can be treated by appropriate surgical therapy if the patient's overall performance status is good. Advanced age alone is not a contra-indication to the relevant therapy, corresponding with the stage of the disease.