Unusual metastasis in BRCA mutated pancreatic cancer while on maintenance Olaparib: Two case reports and review of the literature

Eur J Cancer. 2021 Nov:157:63-67. doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2021.07.042. Epub 2021 Sep 4.

Abstract

The most common metastatic sites of pancreatic cancer are the liver, lymph nodes, peritoneum and lung. Here we report two cases of BRCA mutated pancreatic cancer that developed unusual metastasis while treatment with maintenance Olaparib and leading to rapid death. We hereby review the literature and address the possibility of a different nature and tumour biology of BRCA mutated cancer treated with PARP inhibitors.

Keywords: BRCA mutation; Olaparib; Pancreatic cancer; Tumour biology; Unusual metastasis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Genes, BRCA1*
  • Genes, BRCA2*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mutation*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / genetics
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Phthalazines / therapeutic use*
  • Piperazines / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Phthalazines
  • Piperazines
  • olaparib