This study looked at the use of modified radical mastectomy (MRM) in the treatment of newly diagnosed stage IV inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). The authors found that MRM is associated with improved survival in these patients.

Some background
IBC is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects 2.0-2.5% of women with BC. 25-29% of women with IBC have stage IV disease at diagnosis. Standard treatment for IBC is usually chemo-radiotherapy, surgery, and targeted therapies.

MRM is a procedure in which the entire breast is removed, including the skin, areola, nipple, and most underarm lymph nodes. The use of MRM in the management of newly diagnosed stage IV IBC has remained controversial until now.