Estrogen receptor test

Estrogen Receptor Test

An estrogen receptor test is a diagnostic test used to determine the presence of estrogen receptors in certain types of cancer cells. Estrogen receptors are proteins found on the surface of cells that can bind to the hormone estrogen. The presence of estrogen receptors in cancer cells can help doctors determine the most effective treatment options for a patient.

Purpose

The main purpose of an estrogen receptor test is to determine whether a particular cancer, such as breast cancer, is likely to respond to hormone therapy. Hormone therapy works by blocking the effects of estrogen on cancer cells that have estrogen receptors. If a cancer is found to be estrogen receptor-positive, hormone therapy may be a viable treatment option.

Procedure

The estrogen receptor test is typically performed on a tissue sample taken during a biopsy or surgery. The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed for the presence of estrogen receptors. The test results will indicate whether the cancer cells are estrogen receptor-positive or estrogen receptor-negative.

Results

If the test results show that the cancer cells are estrogen receptor-positive, it means that the cancer is likely to respond to hormone therapy. This information can help doctors tailor the treatment plan to the individual patient, potentially improving outcomes and reducing the risk of recurrence.

Importance

The estrogen receptor test is an important tool in the management of certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer. By identifying whether a cancer is estrogen receptor-positive, doctors can make more informed decisions about treatment options, leading to better outcomes for patients.

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