BACKGROUND

We assessed the effect of zoledronic acid on quality of life (QOL) and pain outcome in breast cancer patients with bone metastases using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer bone metastases module (EORTC QLQ-BM22).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Three hundred sixty-six breast cancer patients receiving zoledronic acid for bone metastases from 13 Centers were prospectively enrolled. QOL was evaluated using the EORTC QLQ-BM22 and pain outcome were measured monthly with a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score for 24 months.

RESULTS

No significant change of functional scale (functional interference and psychosocial aspects) of the EORTC QLQ-BM22 was reported. Significant reduction of the symptom scale was noted after treatment compared with the baseline. The painful site subscale was significantly reduced during the first 12 months, with the exception the 6-month follow-up of point. Pain characteristics subscale was also significantly lower from the 2-month time point onwards. VAS scores indicated a significant reduction in pain over the course of the study to the 22-month time point follow-up compared to the baseline.

CONCLUSION

Zoledronic acid treatment improved QOL of breast cancer patients with bone metastases by relieving bone pain.