Angiogenesis as a therapeutic target in breast cancer

Current evidence indicates that angiogenesis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of several malignancies, including breast cancer. Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Recent clinical data have demonstrated that the addition of bevacizumab to first-line chemotherapy improves the progression-free survival of patients with advanced breast cancer. This review presents an update on the role of bevacizumab, as well as other anti-angiogenic agents in the management of patients with breast carcinoma.