Breast Cancer Unit

Specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, this unit manages a heterogeneous disease that encompasses multiple tumor subtypes with distinct biological and clinical characteristics. Its approach is based on multidisciplinary care and personalized medicine, tailoring each treatment plan to the specific characteristics of both the tumor and the patient.

The unit is staffed by the medical team of the Institute Breast Cancer Center (IBCC), a specialized breast cancer center that provides clinical care at Centro Médico Teknon (Quirónsalud Group), combining patient care, research, and the development of innovative therapies.

Medical Team

Dr. Javier Cortés (Scientific Director)

Dr. José Manuel Pérez (Medical Oncologist, Medical Director)

Dr. Agustí Barnadas (Coordinator of the Breast Disease Committee)

Dr. Laia Garrigós (Medical Oncologist)

Dr. Josep Sabaté (Medical Oncologist)

Dr. Daniela Camacho (Medical Oncologist)

Dr. Patricia Gómez (Medical Oncologist)

Dr. Inazio Lacambra (Medical Oncologist)

Dr. Martín Espinosa (Breast Surgeon)

Dr. Ízaro Hernán (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon)

Dr. Ignacio Miranda (Radiologist)

Dr. Alejandra Rezqallah (Head of Genetic Counseling)

Dr. Blanca González-Farré (Pathologist)

Dr. Cristina Callejas (Head of Palliative Care)

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of breast cancer is based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation and a detailed analysis of the tumor.

Initially, a physical examination of the breast and regional lymph nodes is performed to identify any abnormalities.

This is followed by imaging studies, which may include:

• Bilateral mammography
• Breast ultrasound
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in selected cases

If malignancy is suspected, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the tumor’s characteristics.

Potential lymph node involvement is also evaluated through:

• Axillary ultrasound
• Fine-needle aspiration when clinically indicated

In selected cases, staging investigations are performed to rule out distant metastases, including:

• Chest X-ray
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Thoracic and abdominopelvic Computed Tomography (CT) scan
• Bone scan
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan

Tumor analysis includes the assessment of key biomarkers:

• Hormone receptor status
• HER2 status
• Ki-67 proliferation index

These factors help determine prognosis and guide the selection of the most appropriate treatment strategy for each patient.

Treataments

Breast cancer treatment is based on a combination of therapeutic strategies selected according to the tumor subtype and disease stage.

The main treatment options include:

• Breast cancer surgery (breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy)
• Axillary surgery (sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection)
• Breast reconstruction using techniques designed to preserve or restore aesthetic outcomes
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Endocrine therapy (hormone therapy)
• Targeted therapies (including anti-HER2 treatments)
• Immunotherapy

In localized disease, surgery is often the initial treatment. However, for certain tumor subtypes, systemic therapy may be administered before surgery. In advanced disease, treatment focuses on prolonging survival while maintaining quality of life.

Research and Clincal Trials

The unit’s specialists actively participate in national and international clinical trials in the field of breast cancer, serving as investigators in studies aimed at developing new therapeutic strategies.

When appropriate, patients may be evaluated for inclusion in active clinical trials at other institutions, facilitating access to innovative treatments and emerging therapeutic options.

Approach and Services

• Multidisciplinary care involving oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists
• Personalized medicine based on the biological characteristics of the tumor
• Comprehensive patient assessment
• Support and guidance throughout the entire care journey
• Clinical follow-up focused on the early detection of potential recurrence