Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Why It’s More Aggressive and How It’s Treated

Every cancer diagnosis is unique, but in general, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a more aggressive type of tumor which tends to grow and spread faster. And what makes it worse? The cancer type has fewer treatment options, is more likely to spread (metastasize), and is prone to come back after treatment.
Triple-negative breast cancer accounts for about 12-20% of all breast cancer cases. Unlike other types of breast cancers, TNBC lacks three key receptors known to fuel breast cancer growth -- estrogen, progesterone and a protein called HER2. This makes it unresponsive to standard treatment options.
So let's understand triple-negative breast cancer, its symptoms, causes, advanced treatment and what makes it more aggressive than the other cancer types, while emphasizing the importance of early detection and specialized care. Receive professional care from the best cancer hospital in Noida with specific treatments for enhanced recovery.

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Understanding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer characterized by the absence of three receptors: estrogen, progesterone and a protein called HER2. So if the cancer cells test negative for  hormone receptors - estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR), as well as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), the diagnosis is referred to as triple negative breast cancer.
These receptors typically act as a fuel for the growth of most breast cancers and are targeted in standard treatments. Without these targets, TNBC requires alternative, personalized approaches.
What makes TNBC more aggressive is the fact that these cancers tend to grow and spread more quickly and like other invasive types of breast cancer, TNBC is more likely to spread beyond the breast and return after treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

As with many other cancer types, the exact cause of TNBC remains unclear, but several factors may increase the risk. These include:
 

• BRCA1 gene mutation: About 70% of the breast cancers diagnosed in women with an inherited BRCA1 mutation are TNBC.
   
• Family History: A family history of breast or ovarian cancer can be a strong indicator.
   
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption may contribute to increased risk.
   
•  Age : Younger women, and premenopausal women under the age of 50 have an increased risk of TNBC.
      

Symptoms of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

TNBC patients may experience or present the same symptoms as any breast cancer patient. Mostly, it is detected during routine breast cancer screening. However, some common symptoms include:
 

• A lump or mass in the breast that feels hard
   
• Changes in breast size or shape or appearance
   
• Skin dimpling 
   
• Nipple discharge
   
• Pain or tenderness in the breast
   
• Swelling in the breast or armpit area

Diagnosis of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Early detection is key to improving outcomes. Once a breast cancer diagnosis has been confirmed using imaging tests such as mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs along with a biopsy, the cancer cells will also be checked for certain proteins. If the cells lack estrogen or progesterone receptors (ER or PR), and also do not make the HER2 protein, the cancer is considered to be triple-negative breast cancer.

Treatment Options for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Treatment for TNBC can be challenging and often requires a multifaceted approach. As mentioned, TNBC lacks receptors and do not have the proteins, they fail to respond to common breast cancer treatments, such as hormone therapy and targeted therapy.
 Therefore, the primary treatment options for triple negative breast cancer include:
 

• Chemotherapy: The treatment modality targets rapidly dividing cancer cells. It is used either before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor size or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to prevent recurrence.
   
• Surgery: For TNBC breast cancer that is in stage I through stage III, removing a tumor by surgery is sometimes an option. Depending on the size and extent of cancer, Oncosurgeon will perform one of the following two surgeries: 
  Lumpectomy: This involves removal of the tumor while preserving the breast.
  Mastectomy: This surgery involves complete removal of one or both breasts.
   
• Radiation Therapy: This therapy is frequently recommended after surgery to destroy residual cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk.
   
• Immunotherapy: This treatment helps to boost the immune system’s ability to target cancer cells.
      

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Prognosis

TNBC tends to grow quickly, is more likely to have spread at the time it’s found, and is more likely to come back after treatment than other types of breast cancer. Also, because triple negative breast cancer lacks the receptors that other types of breast cancer have, some treatment options like hormonal therapy may be less effective. Besides, size and extent of TNBC will determine a prognosis. However, like other types of breast cancer, catching TNBC early through routine cancer screening can help improve prognosis.

Prevention of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

While TNBC cannot always be prevented, the following steps may reduce your risk:
 

• Genetic Testing: If you have a family history of breast cancer, consider genetic testing and counseling.
   
• Healthy Lifestyle: Consume a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
   
• Regular Screenings: Schedule routine mammograms and perform monthly self-exams.
   
• Risk-Reducing Surgery: High-risk individuals may consider Bilateral Prophylactic Mastectomy (preventive removal of both breasts) and Oophorectomy (preventive removal of the ovaries).

Meet the Best Cancer Specialist at Felix Hospitals
 

Felix Hospitals, the best hospital for cancer diagnosis and treatment in Noida has some of the most experienced oncologists specializing in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment.
 

Our team, led by Oncosurgeon Dr. Mukta Baxi and Medical Oncologist Dr. Vinita Kumari provides precise diagnosis and personalized care using advanced diagnostic tools and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Our Surgical and Medical Oncology team collaborate seamlessly to get you the treatment you need.

Click here and schedule a consultation with our expert oncologists and take control of your health.

Conclusion

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer is one of the most challenging forms of breast cancer to treat, but advancements in research and treatment have helped improve prognosis. By understanding the disease, recognizing its symptoms, and seeking timely medical care, patients can improve their chances of successful outcomes. Remember, early detection is the key in your fight against TNBC. Make regular screenings and healthy habits a priority, and don’t hesitate to seek expert care.

FAQs
 

1. What makes Triple-Negative Breast Cancer different from other breast cancers?

Ans: TNBC lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, making it unresponsive to hormonal and targeted therapies. Therefore, TNBC has fewer treatment options than other types of invasive breast cancer.

2. Can Triple-Negative Breast Cancer be cured?
Ans: While TNBC is aggressive, it can be treated effectively if caught early. Advanced stages may require more intensive treatment.

3.  How is TNBC typically treated?
Ans: Chemotherapy is the primary line of treatment. It is often combined with other modalities such as surgery, radiation, and, in some cases, immunotherapy.

4. Is TNBC more likely to recur than other types of breast cancer?
Ans: Yes, TNBC has a higher recurrence rate, especially within the first three years after treatment. Therefore, regular follow-ups are critical.

5. How can I reduce my risk of developing TNBC?
Ans: Adopt a healthy lifestyle, stay proactive with screenings, and consider genetic testing if you have a family history of breast cancer.

6. What is early-stage TNBC?
Ans: At stage 1, TNBC is characterized by a relatively small tumor, usually less than 2 centimeters in diameter. At this stage, the cancer cells have not spread to surrounding lymph nodes or metastasized to distant organs.

7. Does triple-negative breast cancer always return?
Ans: Triple-negative breast cancer tends to recur more frequently than other types of cancer. However, if cancer does not return within 5 years, this risk decreases.