HER2/Neu-positive Breast Cancer

Understanding HER2/Neu-positive Breast Cancer

HER2/neu-positive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer in which the cancer cells have too many copies of the HER2/neu gene. The HER2/neu gene is part of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) gene, which helps control the growth and spread of cells. Having too many copies of this gene can cause changes in normal cells, leading to cancer.

About one in five breast cancers are HER2/neu-positive. It is most common in younger women, women of African-American descent, and women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). HER2/neu-positive breast cancer tends to be more aggressive, meaning it grows faster than other types of breast cancer. It is also more likely to spread to other parts of the body.

Risk factors for HER2/neu-positive Breast Cancer

While the exact cause of HER2/neu-positive breast cancer is unknown, there are several factors that can increase your risk. These include:

• Age: Being over 50 increases your risk.
• Weight: Being overweight increases your risk.
• Family history: Having a family member with breast cancer increases your risk.
• Genetics: Having certain mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes increases your risk.
• Radiation exposure: Being exposed to radiation, such as from medical treatments, increases your risk.

Diagnosis of HER2/neu-positive Breast Cancer

The most common way to diagnose HER2/neu-positive breast cancer is with a biopsy. During a biopsy, a doctor takes a sample of tissue from the tumor to look for cancer cells. The doctor will then test the tissue for the HER2/neu gene. If the tissue contains too many copies of the HER2/neu gene, the cancer is considered HER2/neu-positive.

In addition, imaging tests such as MRI and mammography may be used to help diagnose HER2/neu-positive breast cancer.

Treatment of HER2/neu-positive Breast Cancer

Treatment for HER2/neu-positive breast cancer often includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and/or targeted therapy. Targeted therapies are drugs that target and block the HER2/neu gene or receptors in order to stop the cancer from growing and spreading.

Because HER2/neu-positive breast cancer is more aggressive, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help decrease the risk of complications and increase the chances of recovery.