Recurrent Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer
What is Recurrent Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancer?
Recurrent Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancer is a type of breast cancer that is hormone-receptor positive, meaning that the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen or progesterone. This type of breast cancer usually responds to hormone therapy used to prevent the cancer from growing and spreading. ER+ breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer and tends to be less aggressive than other types.
Risk Factors of Recurrent Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancer
There are several factors that can increase the risk for recurrent estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer, including:
- Advanced age
- Family history of breast cancer
- Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Previous treatment with radiation therapy
- Obesity
- High alcohol consumption
- Certain medications
- Being postmenopausal
Treatment Options for Recurrent Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancer
Treatment options for recurrent ER+ breast cancer include hormone therapy, chemo, radiation, targeted drug therapy, and surgery, depending on the individual case. Treatment goals are to relieve any symptoms, stop cancer from spreading, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Hormone Therapy: This type of treatment has been used for many years to treat breast cancer. It works by blocking the actions of hormones like estrogen and progesterone which can fuel the growth of cancer cells. Hormone therapy may include taking drugs that block the action of hormones, or removing organs that make hormones like the ovaries or uterus.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment that works by destroying cancer cells. It is usually used in combination with other forms of treatment, such as hormone therapy or surgery.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, like X-rays, to target and destroy cancer cells. It is typically used in combination with other treatments, like surgery or chemotherapy.
- Targeted Drug Therapy: This type of drug treatment works by targeting specific pathways involved in cancer cell growth or development. Targeted drug therapy may include drugs designed to block the action of hormones, or drugs that target certain receptors on cancer cells.
- Surgery: Surgery can be used to remove cancer from a specific area or as a preventative measure to reduce the risk of spreading. This may include a lumpectomy (removal of only the tumor and a small amount of tissue around it) or a mastectomy (removal of the breast).
Living with Recurrent Estrogen Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancer
Living with recurrent ER+ breast cancer can be challenging. It is important to stay informed and talk to your doctor about the best treatment for your individual needs. Additionally, there are many online resources and support groups available to help people find information and build a network of support.