An overview of triple negative breast cancer for surgical oncologists

Surg Oncol. 2015 Sep;24(3):276-83. doi: 10.1016/j.suronc.2015.06.007. Epub 2015 Jun 12.

Abstract

Triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs) represent a distinct subgroup of breast cancers with an immunohistochemical phenotype that is negative for oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2). The aim of this article is to provide a broad overview of recent developments in the diagnosis and management of TNBC for surgical oncologists. This overview discusses the subtypes of TNBC and the relationship between this type of breast cancer and the BRCA1 gene. In addition, the article explores recent advances in the treatment of TNBC from a surgical, radiation, and medical oncology point of view. Lastly, evolving therapeutic strategies that have potential to enhance outcomes for patients with TNBC are also discussed.

Keywords: Breast surgery oncology; Review; Triple negative breast cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Prognosis
  • Receptor, ErbB-2 / metabolism
  • Receptors, Estrogen / metabolism
  • Receptors, Progesterone / metabolism
  • Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Receptors, Estrogen
  • Receptors, Progesterone
  • ERBB2 protein, human
  • Receptor, ErbB-2