Metastatic HR + HER2 - breast cancer
What is Metastatic HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer?
Metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer is an advanced form of breast cancer that has spread outside the breast and can no longer be treated with surgery or radiation. It is also known as “metastatic hormone receptor-positive, HER2/neu negative.” This refers to the fact that a certain combination of tests reveals that the cancer is hormone receptor-positive but does not contain the HER2/neu gene.
In many cases, metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer can still be treated and a person can go on to live for many years after diagnosis. However, it cannot be cured and continues to exist in the body.
Symptoms of Metastatic HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer
The most common symptom of metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer is a lump in the breast. Other symptoms can include:
- Pain or discomfort in the breast area
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Joint pain
Diagnosis & Treatment of Metastatic HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer
Diagnosis of metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer requires a combination of tests, including a physical exam, a mammogram, MRI, PET scan, and biopsy. Treatment can include chemotherapy, targeted drugs, hormone therapy, and radiation. Surgery and palliative care are also options.
Targeted drugs, which work by blocking certain signals that cancer cells need to grow, can be particularly effective in treating metastatic HR+/HER2- breast cancer. Examples of these drugs include afatinib, neratinib, and trastuzumab. Studies have shown that when these drugs are used in combination, they can reduce the size of tumors and prevent them from growing.
It is important to note that although these treatments can be effective, they do not work for everyone. It is important to speak with a doctor about the risks and benefits of each treatment option and identify the best course of action for each individual case.