Triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that is characterized by the absence of three receptors: estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). These receptors are not expressed in TNBC, hence the term "triple-negative".

Glucose metabolism in triple-negative breast cancer cells

Overview

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 gene mutation. TNBC is often aggressive, with a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of TNBC is made through a biopsy, where a sample of the tumor is examined under a microscope. The absence of ER, PR, and HER2 is confirmed through immunohistochemistry.

Treatment

Treatment for TNBC is challenging due to the lack of targeted therapies. The mainstay of treatment is chemotherapy, which can be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant). Other treatments may include radiation therapy and surgery.

Prognosis

The prognosis for TNBC is generally poorer than for other types of breast cancer, due to the aggressive nature of the disease and the lack of targeted therapies. However, some patients with TNBC have a good response to chemotherapy.

Research

Research into new treatments for TNBC is ongoing. Current areas of research include immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and PARP inhibitors.

See also

• Breast cancer
• Estrogen receptor
• Progesterone receptor
• Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2
• BRCA1
• Immunohistochemistry
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery
• Immunotherapy
• PARP inhibitors