Triple negative breast cancer

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that is characterized by the absence of three receptors: estrogen, progesterone, and HER2. These receptors are typically targeted in breast cancer treatment, so their absence makes TNBC more difficult to treat.

Overview[edit | edit source]

TNBC accounts for approximately 15-20% of all breast cancers. It is more common in women under the age of 40, in African American women, and in those with a BRCA1 mutation. TNBC is more aggressive than other types of breast cancer, with a higher likelihood of recurrence and a poorer prognosis.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of TNBC is made through a biopsy, which is then tested for the presence of estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. If all three are absent, the cancer is classified as triple negative.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for TNBC typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Because TNBC lacks the three receptors that are commonly targeted in breast cancer treatment, it is less responsive to hormonal therapy and HER2-targeted drugs.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research into TNBC is ongoing, with a focus on finding new treatment options. Current research areas include immunotherapy, PARP inhibitors, and androgen receptor-targeted therapy.

See also[edit | edit source]

Triple negative breast cancer Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD