What does her2 positive and hormone receptor positive mean Meaning and Definition

What does her2 positive and hormone receptor positive mean

What does her2 positive and hormone receptor positive mean

Pronunciation

/hwɑt ˈhɛr tuː pɒzɪtɪv ænd hɔrmoʊn riˈsɛptər pɒzɪtɪv miːn/

Part of Speech

Phrase

Definition

A medical term used to describe breast cancer that tests positive for HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) and hormone receptors, indicating that the cancer growth is driven by the hormone estrogen and/or progesterone.

Examples

  • The doctor explained that the breast cancer was HER2 positive and hormone receptor positive, and outlined the treatment options.
  • The patient was relieved to learn that her cancer was HER2 positive and hormone receptor positive, as it responded well to targeted therapy.

Synonyms

  • HER2+ HR+
  • Hormone-sensitive breast cancer

Antonyms

  • HER2 negative
  • Hormone receptor negative

Additional Information

Breast cancer that is HER2 positive and hormone receptor positive tends to grow more rapidly and aggressively than other types of breast cancer. However, targeted therapies such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab have been developed to specifically target HER2-positive cells, and hormone therapies such as tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors can help block the growth of hormone-sensitive cells.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with HER2-positive and hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.

Research is ongoing to develop more effective treatments and improve understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this type of breast cancer.

Eymology

The term “HER2 positive and hormone receptor positive” is derived from the names of the two proteins involved: HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) and hormone receptors (estrogen and progesterone receptors).

Usage Notes

This term is primarily used in medical contexts, particularly in oncology and breast cancer research.

Cultural References

Breast cancer awareness campaigns often feature stories of women diagnosed with HER2-positive and hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • Her2 status
  • Hormone receptor status

Related Words or Phrases

  • Breast cancer subtype
  • Tumor marker

Collocations

  • HER2-positive breast cancer
  • Hormone receptor-positive tumors

Frequency of Use

This term is frequently used in medical journals and breast cancer research publications.

Common Misspellings

  • Her 2 positive and hormone receptor positive
  • HER2 pos and HR pos

Related Words