When is radiotherapy typically utilized in breast cancer treatment?

Radiotherapy is typically utilized in breast cancer treatment primarily after breast-conserving surgery, as well as in certain cases following mastectomy, especially when dealing with large lesions or high-grade tumors. This approach helps reduce the risk of local recurrence by targeting any remaining cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or surrounding tissue.

Post-operative radiotherapy serves as an important adjunct to surgical treatment, particularly for patients who have undergone lumpectomy, to ensure comprehensive management of the disease. In cases where mastectomy has been performed, radiotherapy might be indicated when there are specific risk factors present, such as large tumor size or high tumor grade, which increase the likelihood of residual disease.

Other situations, such as using radiotherapy solely for metastatic disease or before administering chemotherapy, do not reflect the established standard treatment protocols and guidelines for breast cancer management. Thus, the correct application of radiotherapy hinges on these particular scenarios, making it a vital component of adjuvant therapy in many breast cancer cases.