What should you know about triple-positive breast cancer?

The label refers to three laboratory findings in breast cancer cells: oestrogen receptors, progesterone receptors and increased HER2. These receptors can influence how the cancer grows and which medicines may be useful. The label does not by itself tell you the tumour stage, grade, size or lymph-node status.

A breast biopsy provides tissue for diagnosis and receptor testing. Mammography and breast MRI may help define the tumour and other areas of concern. The team may also discuss gene-expression or genomic testing when it could add information to treatment planning.

Treatment can involve surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and HER2-directed medicine, with radiotherapy in situations where it is recommended. The order may differ: some people receive drug treatment before surgery, while others begin with an operation. Decisions reflect stage, tumour biology, general health, heart history, preferences and test results.

A sentinel lymph-node biopsy may assess the first draining nodes during breast surgery. Keep a record of medicines and ask how treatment could affect fertility, work, exercise, hair, heart monitoring or pregnancy planning.

Arrange prompt assessment for a new breast or underarm lump, nipple inversion, skin thickening, bloody discharge or a persistent change in breast shape. During treatment, report fever, breathing difficulty, chest pain, severe diarrhoea, allergic symptoms or a sudden reduction in exercise tolerance without delay.

Are all three receptor results clearly positive, and what are the test values? What is the tumour stage and grade? Will treatment start before or after surgery? How will HER2 treatment and heart monitoring be handled? Do I need a sentinel-node biopsy or genomic testing?