Triple Negative- Good or Bad News

JoyMrt5

I was diagnosed yesterday with IDC - Grade 3. Today I learned it is triple negative. What exactly does that mean and is it good or bad?

ElaineTherese

Hi!

It means that neither hormones (e.g., estrogen) nor the HER2 protein are encouraging the growth of your cancer. In some ways, ER-/PR-/HER2- is considered to be bad news in the sense that:

1) chemo is typically recommended;

2) it can't be treated with hormonal therapy (Tamoxifen or the aromatase inhibitors); and

3) it can't be treated with targeted therapy (Herceptin and Perjeta).

However, many women with early stage triple negative cancer are successfully treated and do not experience recurrence or distant metastases. In your case, because you're grade 3, chemo should work well because chemo works best on fast-growing cells. Also, the chances of recurring after diagnosis decrease significantly for triple negative breast cancer patients after 3 years or so. ((Hugs))

All cancer sucks.

Anonymous

This link to the triple negative discussion may help you a lot. Everyone there has what you have.

https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/72

VL22

Joy - avoid Dr. Google at all costs us my first bit of advice. It will only cause you undue panic. As clairenaz wisely suggested, the TN forum is a great place for you to safely land.

TN can be scary for sure, but so many ladies are doing great years out.

Hugs.

Minetta57

Hi, I also have been diagnosed with triple negative recently. As member mentioned above, there is much stuff out there that makes one nervous so I’m not reading that. Today, had my PET scan and echocardiogram. I’m also starting to watch my diet by adding more fruits and veggies and eating less sugar. Although, I have lost a few pounds after this dx. Good luck to you and me.