It sounds like your question may have been cut off — it seems like you might be asking whether a diagnosis can change from HER2-positive to triple-negative (TNBC) after surgery and pathology. The short answer is: yes, this can happen.
The initial biopsy before surgery tests a sample of the tumor. After a lumpectomy, the Show Full Answer
It sounds like your question may have been cut off — it seems like you might be asking whether a diagnosis can change from HER2-positive to triple-negative (TNBC) after surgery and pathology. The short answer is: yes, this can happen.
The initial biopsy before surgery tests a sample of the tumor. After a lumpectomy, the full tumor is examined, which can sometimes reveal a more complete and accurate picture of the cancer's molecular profile. A TNBC diagnosis means the cancer cells test negative for all three proteins:
- Estrogen receptors (ER)
- Progesterone receptors (PR)
- HER2
This matters because treatments that target those proteins — like HER2-targeted therapies — won't be effective for TNBC. However, there are still strong treatment options available, including:
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Clinical trials
It's also worth asking your doctor about genetic testing, as it can open up additional treatment options.
This is a lot to process, and it's completely understandable to feel unsettled by a changing diagnosis. Talking openly with your care team about what this means for your specific treatment plan is the most important next step. You're not alone in navigating this. 💙
July 11
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