37-Year-Old Woman with Twins Successfully Treated for Aggressive Breast Cancer at Fortis, Bengaluru

Bengaluru: A 37-year-old woman, diagnosed with advanced breast cancer while pregnant with twins, received successful treatment at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road.

The multidisciplinary team, led by Dr. Sandeep Nayak P, Director of Surgical Oncology, and supported by Dr. Bharath G and Dr. Vivek Belathur, developed a comprehensive treatment strategy. This approach provided a path towards recovery while also preserving her pregnancy, giving her the chance to embrace motherhood.

About a year ago, during her 18th week of pregnancy, Priya (name changed) discovered a lump in her right breast, leading her to consult her doctor. An MRI revealed a complex breast mass affecting surrounding tissues but not yet involving the muscles.

Additionally, swollen lymph nodes were detected in her right armpit and chest. A biopsy confirmed the presence of Grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma, a fast-growing breast cancer originating in the milk ducts.

At the time of diagnosis, the cancer was categorized as stage 3 and HER2-positive, indicating high levels of HER2 protein, which accelerates cancer growth. This also made the cancer resistant to certain hormone therapies, adding complexity to her treatment approach.

Due to the complexity of Priya's condition, a collaborative effort was made by oncologists, obstetricians, and surgeons to create a treatment plan that balanced the well-being of both the mother and her unborn twins.

The approach included chemotherapy, advanced imaging, and surgical interventions, with a focus on safeguarding her health while minimizing risks to the babies.

Giving details of the surgery Dr Bharath G, Consultant - Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road said “Priya’s case was especially challenging, as she was 18 weeks pregnant with twins while simultaneously battling an aggressive and rapidly progressing cancer. Our team, consisting of both oncology specialists and obstetricians, had to strike a delicate balance between treating the cancer and ensuring the safety of both mother and babies. We began with chemotherapy to control the cancer, taking every precaution to minimize risks to the unborn babies. At 34 weeks, we decided to perform an early Caesarean section to deliver the twins safely, allowing us to focus on her ongoing treatment while ensuring both her health and the babies’ well-being.”

Explaining the procedure in detail, Dr Vivek Belathur, Senior Consultant - Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road said “She underwent chemotherapy during pregnancy, which presented its own set of challenges. Unfortunately, despite the initial treatments, a PET scan (a scan that shows how the cells in the body are functioning, including cancerous cells) post-delivery indicated disease progression, and the cancer was found to have spread further. Following the delivery of the twins, Priya underwent a mastectomy surgery to remove the affected breast. This step was crucial in the battle against the cancer. She is now receiving targeted therapy aimed at HER2-positive cancer cells, in addition to bone health medications to strengthen her bones and reduce the risk of spread of cancer to other parts of the body. The latest scans show that the new medication regimen has started to show positive effects, with reduced signs of cancer progression and a renewed hope for recovery. She is scheduled for breast reconstruction in the upcoming months.”

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru said, "At Fortis Hospitals, we are committed to delivering the highest standards of personalized medical care. In Priya’s complex case, our multidisciplinary team worked with precision and empathy to ensure both her and her twins’ well-being. We are proud to have utilized advanced techniques, including targeted therapy and breast removal surgery, to address the aggressive cancer and provide a tailored treatment plan. This case reflects our commitment to integrating cutting-edge medical technologies with compassionate care, setting new benchmarks in patient outcomes and offering renewed hope for recovery."