ESR1 mutations and breast cancer treatment

At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we provide expert, personalised care for all types of breast cancer, including those involving ESR1 mutations. If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer that has an ESR1 mutation, we are here to guide you through your treatment options and support you every step of the way.

What is an ESR1 mutation?

The ESR1 gene provides instructions for making the oestrogen receptor, a protein found in many breast cancer cells. This receptor allows cancer cells to grow when exposed to the hormone oestrogen. Mutations in the ESR1 gene can make these cancer cells resistant to certain hormone therapies, particularly aromatase inhibitors.

ESR1 mutations are often found in advanced or metastatic breast cancer and can make the disease more challenging to treat. However, tailored treatment options, including newly approved therapies, are available to target these mutations and manage the disease effectively.

Treatment options for ESR1 mutations

If you have breast cancer with an ESR1 mutation, your treatment plan will be designed to target the specific challenges posed by the mutation. Common treatment options include:

• Selective oestrogen receptor degraders (SERDs): Drugs like fulvestrant and the newly approved elacestrant (Korserdu) work by blocking and degrading the oestrogen receptor. Elacestrant has been approved by the UK Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) as an effective oral treatment for ESR1-mutated, advanced or metastatic breast cancer. This provides a convenient and targeted option for many patients.
• Targeted therapies: CDK4/6 inhibitors, such as palbociclib or ribociclib, are often used in combination with hormone treatments. These drugs block proteins that help cancer cells divide and grow, slowing down disease progression.
• Combination therapy: Combining SERDs, including elacestrant, or CDK4/6 inhibitors with hormone therapy can enhance treatment effectiveness and address resistance.
• Clinical trials: You may have the opportunity to access cutting-edge therapies specifically designed to target ESR1 mutations through clinical trials, offering new hope for effective treatments.

Your oncologist will discuss these options with you and create a personalised treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis, overall health, and treatment goals.

Managing side effects of treatment

Targeted treatments for ESR1 mutations, such as elacestrant and CDK4/6 inhibitors, are generally well-tolerated, but like all cancer treatments, they can have side effects. These may include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Hot flushes
• Joint or muscle pain
• Increased risk of infections (particularly with CDK4/6 inhibitors)

Our team will provide practical advice and support to help you manage these side effects and maintain your quality of life during treatment. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure that your treatment is effective and that any concerns are addressed promptly.

Understanding the benefits of treatment

Treating breast cancer with an ESR1 mutation can provide several benefits, including:

• Slowing the progression of the disease
• Reducing the size of tumours
• Managing symptoms and improving quality of life
• Delaying the need for more aggressive treatments, such as chemotherapy

The approval of elacestrant by the MHRA provides a significant advancement in treatment options, offering a targeted approach that improves outcomes and convenience for patients.

Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?

At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we are dedicated to providing advanced, compassionate care tailored to your individual needs. Here’s why patients trust us with their treatment:

• Expert care: Our team of specialists has extensive experience in treating breast cancer, including ESR1 mutations, using the latest evidence-based approaches.
• Access to innovative therapies: We provide access to the most advanced treatments, including MHRA-approved elacestrant, and clinical trial opportunities for cutting-edge therapies.
• Personalised treatment plans: Every patient’s care plan is tailored to their specific diagnosis and lifestyle to achieve the best possible outcomes.
• Comprehensive support: We’re with you every step of the way, offering practical advice and emotional care to help you navigate your treatment with confidence.

Contact us

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer involving an ESR1 mutation, Birmingham Breast Clinic is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.

With expert care, innovative therapies like elacestrant, and personalised support, we’ll work together to create a treatment plan that’s right for you, giving you the confidence and hope to face the future.