HER2-positive breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer characterized by the overexpression of the HER2 protein.

What is HER2-positive breast cancer?

HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for approximately 15-20% of all breast cancer cases. The HER2 gene helps control cell growth and division. In HER2-positive breast cancer, this gene is overactive, leading to more aggressive tumor growth.

How is HER2-positive breast cancer diagnosed?

• Biopsy: Analysis of breast tissue.
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Evaluates HER2 protein levels.
• Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH): Checks for HER2 gene amplification.

Common Symptoms

• Lump in the breast or underarm.
• Swelling or change in size or shape of the breast.
• Pain or discomfort in the breast area.
• Skin changes such as dimpling or irritation.

Treatment Options for HER2-positive Breast Cancer

Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

Surgery

• Lumpectomy: Removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
• Mastectomy: Removal of one or both breasts, depending on the extent of the cancer.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies are designed to specifically target and inhibit the growth of HER2-positive cancer cells.

• Trastuzumab (Herceptin): Monoclonal antibody that binds to HER2 protein.
• Pertuzumab (Perjeta): Works in conjunction with trastuzumab to block HER2 receptors.
• Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla): Combines trastuzumab with a chemotherapy drug.

Chemotherapy

• Given after surgery (adjuvant therapy) or before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy).
• Common drugs include anthracyclines, taxanes, and carboplatin.

Radiation Therapy

• Often used after lumpectomy to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
• Can also be used after mastectomy if the cancer is aggressive.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer is often followed by regular monitoring to check for cancer recurrence.

• Regular doctor visits.
• Imaging tests such as mammograms or MRIs.
• Blood tests to monitor health status.

Statistics and Survival Rates

Conclusion

HER2-positive breast cancer is a serious subtype but has effective treatment options available. Early detection and a combination of therapies can lead to improved outcomes.