Bibliometric mapping reveals global inequities and therapeutic evolution in triple-negative breast cancer brain metastasis research

Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer brain metastasis carries a median survival of only six months, yet the global research landscape has never been systematically mapped. We analyzed 562 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (2008–2026) using CiteSpace and VOSviewer to examine publication dynamics, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. Research output tripled after 2019, driven by antibody-drug conjugates (citation burst strength 5.29), but geographic inequities are stark: the United States and Europe dominate while Africa and South America are virtually absent despite high disease burden. The field has transitioned from palliative radiotherapy to precision neuro-oncology, yet three structural imbalances persist—regulatory-evidence mismatches for central nervous system active agents, extreme geographic concentration, and neglect of neurocognitive survivorship endpoints. These findings reveal critical gaps that must be addressed to ensure future therapies are both effective and globally equitable.