Association of tumor angiogenesis with bone marrow micrometastases in breast cancer patients

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The microscopic detection of tumor cells (micrometastases) in bone marrow and the extent of blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) in primary tumor specimens are recognized as independent prognostic markers in patients with breast cancer. Since micrometastases occur as a consequence of interaction between the neoplastic cells and the tumor neovasculature, we have examined the relationship between these markers to determine whether the degree of angiogenesis is related to the presence of micrometastases. Methods: Micrometastases were identified in bone marrow aspirates collected from multiple sites in 214 breast cancer patients prior to surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy..