In addition, it doesn’t respond to drugs that target the estrogen receptor or progesterone receptor. Because it lacks these receptors, treating triple-negative breast cancer is more difficult. Fortunately, treatments are available. These include chemotherapy, hormonal therapies, or clinical trials. But the best way to get the best outcome is to detect your breast cancer as early as possible.
Approximately 15% to 20% of breast cancers do not express the hormones ER, PR, or HER2. Because these hormones are key to the survival and treatment of this disease, clinical agents are available for this type of breast cancer. Unfortunately, there are no specific biomarkers for triple-negative breast cancer, but knowledge of basic and translational science can support treatment decisions. Because of its aggressive biology, triple-negative breast cancer is difficult to treat, but with proper diagnosis, there is hope.
Treatments for triple-negative breast cancer are based on its location and the type of tumor. It can spread to other areas, including the nipple, and even the skin. While the immune system can fight triple-negative breast cancer, chemotherapy will not work in this case. Patients may also be given immunotherapy or hormonal therapy to suppress the immune system. However, these treatments are not for everyone. In some cases, triple-negative breast cancer may be resistant to hormone treatments and surgery, which will only make the cancer more aggressive.
Statistics show that 77% of women with localized triple-negative breast cancer will survive for five years or more. In contrast, only 15% of women with regional or distant triple-negative breast cancer will survive longer than this. Unfortunately, triple-negative breast cancer is more likely to recur than other forms. The risk of recurrence peaks at three years after diagnosis and then falls quickly. There is hope, however, because more research is being done.
In addition to chemotherapy, targeted therapies are being developed for patients with triple-negative breast cancer. Drugs like atezolizumab are being tested in combination with chemotherapy for patients with this type of cancer. They may help control the growth of the tumor. These drugs are still in the research phase, but are not yet widely available. The Triple Negative Trial is currently the most comprehensive study for patients with triple-negative breast cancer. It will compare several types of chemotherapy and determine which one is the best treatment option for the triple-negative form of the disease.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, you should contact your doctor as soon as you notice any new symptoms. Your doctor can make regular appointments to check on you as soon as new symptoms occur. If you have new symptoms, however, you can call your doctor. This way, you can take advantage of the latest research in this field. You’ll be able to receive the best treatment possible. If your cancer is still recurring, your doctor can make a second appointment with you.
