Predictive Factors for Relapse in Localized Triple-Negative Breast Cancer —A Retrospective Study at Hassan II University Hospital in Fez-Morocco

Abstract

Intr oduction: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a poor prognosis with a high relapse rate. This study aims to identify predictors of relapse in a Moroccan cohort. Methods: A retrospective study including 130 patients treated between 2016 and 2021. Analysis of clinicopathological characteristics and biological markers (Ki-67, TILs, HER2-low status) was performed. Results: The overall relapse rate was 21.5%. Factors significantly associated with an increased risk were: lymph node involvement (39% vs 7% for N0, p < 0.001), Ki-67 > 80% (50% relapse rate, p < 0.001), and absence of pCR (28% vs 0%, p < 0.001). High TILs (≥50%) were protective (12.9% relapse vs 26.8% for low TILs, p = 0.03). Discussion: Our results confirm data from the literature regarding the prognostic role of nodal status, Ki-67, and pCR. The predictive value of TILs, particularly moderate levels (11% - 49%), warrants further exploration. Conclusion: This study identifies high-risk subgroups justifying a personalized therapeutic approach, while highlighting the potential of immunological markers as predictive factors.