Clinical Progress of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treating Adverse Reactions after Breast Cancer Surgery and Chemotherapy

Abstract

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor with a high incidence rate. Its pathogenesis may be related to genetic, hormonal, reproductive, dietary, radiation, and drug factors. The main clinical manifestation is a painless breast lump. Modern medical treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and molecular targeted therapy. Although these treatment modalities can achieve considerable efficacy, their adverse reactions are also significant and seriously affect patients’ physical and mental health. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), breast cancer falls under the category of “Breast Rock”. Studies have found that TCM can effectively improve postoperative skin flap necrosis and upper limb lymphedema, alleviate chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal reactions, improve chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression, and regulate endocrine disorders.