HER2-positive breast cancer is defined by the overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. When operating properly, this protein stimulates cell growth and division; but, when overexpressed, it can cause uncontrolled cell growth, contributing to cancer development and progression. HER2-positive breast cancer makes up to 20-25%..
HER2-positive breast cancer is defined by the overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. When operating properly, this protein stimulates cell growth and division; but, when overexpressed, it can cause uncontrolled cell growth, contributing to cancer development and progression. HER2-positive breast cancer makes up to 20-25% of all breast cancers. It is more aggressive than other types of breast cancer and has a higher risk of spreading to other regions of the body. However, advances in therapeutic choices for HER2-positive malignancies have resulted in dramatically improved patient outcomes. The HER2/neu test, which measures the amounts of HER2 protein on cancer cell surfaces, is an important diagnostic tool for detecting HER2-positive breast cancer. This test helps guide treatment options because treatments that directly target HER2 can be quite effective. HER2-positive breast cancer is frequently treated with a combination of therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Targeted treatments, including HER2-targeted monoclonal antibodies (such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (such as lapatinib), have transformed the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer. These medications directly target the HER2 protein, reducing its activity and slowing cancer cell proliferation. The introduction of HER2-targeted medicines has dramatically improved the prognosis for individuals with HER2-positive breast cancer, resulting in higher outcomes and survival rates. These treatments may be used in conjunction with other traditional therapy or in different sequences depending on the stage and details of the malignancy. Patients with HER2-positive breast cancer are frequently monitored and followed up to assess their response to treatment and discover any signs of recurrence or metastasis.Furthermore, continuing research is exploring new treatments and treatment modalities with the goal of improving the outcomes and quality of life for people impacted with HER2-positive breast cancer. Awareness, early identification, and advances in targeted therapy have significantly altered the landscape of HER2-positive breast cancer management, providing hope and better prospects for patients diagnosed with this subtype of breast cancer.
