Low muscle mass & treatment toxicity in metastatic breast cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The association between low skeletal MUSCLE mass and Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, and Targeted therapy related toxicity in females with metastatic brEast cancer (MUSCLE-CITE): retrospective cohort study
IRAS ID
350510
Contact name
Ian Lahart
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Wolverhampton
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study aims to investigate how low skeletal muscle mass (LSMM) affects the tolerability of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies, in females with metastatic breast cancer. Skeletal muscle plays a key role in the body’s response to treatment, and patients with low muscle mass may experience more severe side effects.
The study will assess the prevalence of low skeletal muscle mass in females with metastatic breast cancer before they begin systemic therapy, focusing on those with cancer that has spread to the bone, liver, lung, or brain. It will also examine the relationship between low skeletal muscle mass on treatment-related toxicities, including the need for dose reductions, treatment delays, discontinuations, or severe side effects.
Researchers will explore factors that might influence this relationship, such as the age, cancer stage, and treatment type and intensity. Skeletal muscle and fat levels will be assessed using CT scans that were performed as part of standard care and patient records from routine care will be reviewed to evaluate any treatment-related toxicities.
Our study aims to enhance cancer treatment planning by identifying female breast cancer patients at risk for increased toxicity due to low skeletal muscle mass. In doing so, researchers can develop/evaluate more specific interventions to address this issue, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life for people with advanced breast cancer.
REC name
East Midlands - Leicester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/EM/0009
Date of REC Opinion
13 Mar 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion