Aged 18 and older; histologically proven invasive T2-3, N0-2, and M0 (stages IIB–IIIA) breast carcinoma; Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≤2. Hematological function: Absolute leukocyte count ≥4,000/mm3, platelets ≥100,000/mm3, hemoglobin ≥9.0 g/dL. Hepatic function: total bilirubin, aspartate amino transferase and alanine amino transferase <1.5 the upper normal limit. Renal function: creatinine ≤1.2 mg/dL or a calculated creatinine clearance of ≥60 mL/min. Written informed consent.