Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Triple negative breast cancer tests negative for estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). These receptors are structures on the surface of cells and attach to estrogen, progesterone, and HER2. They tell the cancer cells to grow and make this type of breast cancer more difficult to treat effectively. Other tumors test positive for one, two, or all three of the receptors.
Chemotherapy is the best treatment to stop triple negative breast cancer from coming back. Research suggests that triple negative breast cancer responds better to chemotherapy than other types of breast cancer. It does not respond to endocrine therapy such as tamoxifen or one of the aromatase inhibitors.
Studies have shown that women with triple negative tumors are more likely to be younger than 40 years of age and to be Hispanic or African American. About 15% of breast cancer is triple negative.
Researchers are developing better ways to treat this type of breast cancer. If you have triple negative breast cancer, remember that statistics are the average of large groups of individuals. As one individual, your case is unique. If you have questions about this type of breast cancer, please take with your physician.
YourShoesTM 24/7 Breast Cancer Support Center peer counselors are available 24 hours a day to lend emotional support and provide information. Please be in touch with us at 800-221-2141 if you ever need to talk.