It sounds like you're asking about what it means to be both HER2-positive and ER-positive (estrogen receptor-positive). This combination is sometimes called "triple-positive" if progesterone receptors (PR) are also present.
Here's a quick breakdown of what each means:
- HER2-positive — Your cancer cells make too much of Show Full Answer
It sounds like you're asking about what it means to be both HER2-positive and ER-positive (estrogen receptor-positive). This combination is sometimes called "triple-positive" if progesterone receptors (PR) are also present.
Here's a quick breakdown of what each means:
- HER2-positive — Your cancer cells make too much of the HER2 protein, which can cause the cancer to grow faster
- ER-positive — Your cancer cells rely on estrogen to grow
The good news is that having both markers actually opens up more treatment options for you. Treatment for HER2-positive and ER-positive breast cancer often includes a combination of:
- Targeted therapy — Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) that block the HER2 protein
- Hormone therapy — Drugs like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors to block estrogen from fueling cancer growth
- Chemotherapy — Often used alongside targeted therapy
- Surgery and/or radiation — Depending on your stage
The five-year survival rate for people with localized HER2-positive and ER-positive breast cancer is greater than 99%, which is really encouraging. Your care team will tailor a plan specifically for you based on your full diagnosis.
August 16
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