When is chemotherapy recommended for triple-negative breast cancer?

Triple-negative breast cancer lacks three receptors commonly used to guide hormone or targeted treatment, so chemotherapy is often a central part of planning. Before surgery, it may shrink the tumour, treat cancer cells beyond the breast, and show how the cancer responds. After surgery, it may address microscopic disease when features such as tumour size or lymph-node involvement suggest added treatment could help. For cancer that has returned or spread, medicines may slow growth and relieve symptoms. Some treatment plans also include immunotherapy or other medicines when testing and health status make them appropriate.

Ask why treatment is being given before or after surgery and how response will be assessed. Discuss breast surgery, radiotherapy, genetic testing when relevant, fertility and pregnancy plans, heart health, blood tests, and support for nausea, fatigue, hair loss or infection risk. Provide a full list of medicines and supplements.

During treatment, contact the oncology team urgently for fever, chills, breathlessness, chest pain, severe vomiting, confusion, dehydration, or unusual bleeding. Report a new rapidly growing breast or underarm lump, severe pain, or sudden swelling without waiting for the next appointment.

What is the aim and timing of chemotherapy in my plan? What did the biopsy and scans show? Which surgery, radiotherapy or additional medicines may be combined with it?