In the AMAROS trial comparing axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) versus axillary radiotherapy after positive sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer, which outcome was superior in the axillary radiotherapy arm?

• A Better locoregional control
• B Improved overall survival
• C Reduced risk of distant metastases
• D Significantly lower rate of lymphedema ✓

Explanation

The AMAROS (After Mapping of the Axilla: Radiotherapy or Surgery) trial found equivalent axillary recurrence rates between ALND and axillary radiotherapy after a positive sentinel node. However, the radiotherapy arm demonstrated a significantly lower rate of lymphedema (11% vs. 23% at 5 years), making it the key advantage. Overall survival and distant recurrence rates were similar between the two arms.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.