Advances in targeted therapy for inflammatory breast cancer: nanomaterials, conventional treatments, and clinical applications

Abstract Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) presents a formidable challenge due to its rapid progression and unique clinical characteristics within the various manifestations of breast cancer. Despite being rare, its aggressive nature demands innovative approaches beyond conventional treatments. Nanomedicine offers exciting possibilities for improving all types of breast cancer therapeutics including IBC. In this review, we critically assess the current treatment landscape for IBC, highlighting the limitations of traditional methods and addressing the pressing need for new therapeutic strategies. Although many nanomaterials have been explored for breast cancer therapeutics, either alone or in combination with other therapies, only a limited number of nanotherapeutics have been extensively studied for IBC treatment. This review further explores how advancements in nanotechnology, such as nanoparticle- mediated photothermal therapy, Photodynamic therapy, and nanomedicinal targeted therapies can offer novel avenues for addressing the unique biological, technological, and regulatory challenges posed by IBC. IBC-related various nanomedicines based combitorial therapies are highlighted in this review. It also provides a forward-looking perspective on key research directions and clinical applications.