HER2-POSITIVE BREAST CANCER

Overview and Facts

HER2-positive breast cancer occurs when the breast cancer cells carry a protein receptor known as HER2. This protein normally aids breast cells in their growth, division, and repair.

However, there are times when something turns out badly with the gene that regulates the HER2 protein, and your body produces an excessive number of these receptors. As a result, your breast cells will multiply and grow unmanageably. 

While HER2 breast cancer is more severe than other forms, there are therapies that can help. You and your doctor will discuss alternative treatments and come up with the best ways that are suitable for you.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

The most common sign of breast cancer is a lump or swelling in your breast. Moreover, other signs and symptoms of HER2-positive breast cancer are:

  • Swelling of the breast
  • Changes in your breast shape
  • Breast or nipple soreness
  • Irritation or dimpling of the skin
  • Nipple’s discharge (not breast milk)
  • Redness or thickening of nipple or breast skin

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

In diagnosing breast cancer, the doctor will check your breast and ask you about your symptoms and history. After that, he/she will order multiple tests, such as MRI, mammogram, biopsy, and ultrasound. 

If it’s confirmed that you have breast cancer, your doctor will examine it to find out if it is HER2-positive. In doing so, they most likely will conduct one or more of the following tests:

  • IHC test
  • FISH test
  • Inform Dual ISH test

Occasionally, the findings of a single test aren’t always apparent. If this occurs, your doctor may suggest a different type.

TREATMENT

Your doctor will treat your breast cancer differently if it is HER2-positive. This could entail:

  • Chemotherapy. It can be given before the surgery to minimize the tumor and destroy the remaining cancer cells. 
  • Radiation. This treatment may be used after surgery to reduce the probability of your cancer returning or spreading to other places of your body. 
  • Surgery. This treatment might be needed for stage 1 to stage 3 cancer. 
  • Targeted therapy. This therapy stops cancer cells from spreading or growing. 

Talk to your doctor regarding the right treatment for your condition. He/she may recommend various treatments that will help manage and prevent the spread of cancer.

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