Available online 13 December 2023, 151554

Metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer remains a significant clinical challenge with a poor prognosis. The introduction of anti-HER2 therapies has significantly improved survival in early and advanced stages. However, patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer eventually experience progression due to de novo or acquired resistance. This review article comprehensively analyzes the current management of metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, addressing the complexities in determining the optimal HER2-targeted therapy sequence.

Discussion of selected peer-reviewed articles and expert opinion.

We explore the actual standard of care and the emerging therapeutic options that hold promise for further improving patient care and survival in this aggressive breast cancer subtype. This article highlights vital toxicities linked to anti-HER2 therapies, emphasizing their recognition across treatments as interstitial lung disease, diarrhea, or left ventricular dysfunction.

Oncology nurses have a key role to play in detecting potential adverse effects of anti-HER2 therapies. The development of new drugs, as antibody–drug conjugates, with a distinct toxicity profile makes it necessary for us to be updated on the management of these new toxicities.

Anti-HER2 therapies

HER2 positive

Metastatic breast cancer

Trial

© 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc.