Novel Breast Cancer Therapies: HER2 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors

STATEMENT OF NEED

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, and it is estimated that 15% of cases are HER2-positive and may therefore benefit from human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibition (ACS, 2019). By blocking downstream oncogenic signaling in HER2-positive breast cancer cells, HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors improve outcomes for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. These agents have advantages over monoclonal antibody HER2 inhibitors because they are orally available and may have increased penetration of the brain to treat brain metastases. Additionally, the spectrums of kinase inhibition for each individual tyrosine kinase inhibitor produce unique efficacy and safety profiles, which may make them a good option for some patients (Schlam & Swain, 2021). Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are often used in combination with chemotherapy and other HER2-targeting agents, which complicates their management. This session will review data on HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors, including tucatinib and neratinib, and will compare their activity and safety profiles in combination with other medications for breast cancer. The faculty will highlight the differing considerations for management of patients taking these drugs.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Oncology nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, oncologists, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with breast cancer.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to
Assess the indications and safety and efficacy profiles of novel HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors for breast cancer
Evaluate clinical tools for assessing and grading adverse events associated with novel HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Apply strategies to optimize the safety and tolerability of novel HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Develop educational strategies to help patients understand the benefits and risks of their breast cancer treatment plan