Breast Cancer Hormone Receptors

Overview

Breast cancer hormone receptors are like locks on the surface of cancer cells. When these receptors are positive, it means that hormones like estrogen or progesterone can fuel the growth of the cancer. On the other hand, if the receptors are negative, it indicates that hormones do not play a role in promoting cancer growth.

Understanding whether breast cancer is hormone receptor-positive or negative is crucial for treatment decisions. Hormone receptor-positive cancers, including estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) ones, tend to grow more slowly and have specific treatment options. These cancers can be treated with hormone drugs that lower estrogen levels or block estrogen receptors, helping to prevent cancer growth and spread.

Positive results for hormone receptors mean that certain medicines may be more effective in treating the cancer, while negative results indicate that these medicines may not work well. Doctors use tests for hormone receptors, along with other factors like genes and growth factors, to tailor the most suitable treatment for each person's specific type of breast cancer. This personalized approach is important because it ensures that individuals receive the most effective treatment for their unique condition.

What are hormone receptors and how do they affect breast cancer?

How does knowing if my cancer is hormone receptor-positive or negative influence my treatment options?

What tests are used to determine if my breast cancer is hormone receptor-positive or negative?

https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/estrogen-receptor-progesterone-receptor-tests
Estrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor Tests
Receptors are proteins that attach to certain substances. Estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor tests look for receptors that attach to the hormones estrogen and/or progesterone in breast cancer cells. Breast cancers that have these receptors often respond well to some types of treatments. Learn more.
MedlinePlus
/en/sources/healthline-breast-cancer-hormone-receptor-types-er-positive
Breast Cancer Hormone Receptor Types: ER-Positive
ER-positive breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer diagnosed today. Find out what this means, and learn about treatment options and outlook.
Healthline
2018-09-06
/en/sources/healthline-from-cost-to-caregiving-10-things-to-know-when-starting-metastatic-breast-cancer-treatment
From Cost to Caregiving: 10 Things to Know When Starting Metastatic Breast Cancer Treatment
Being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer is an overwhelming experience. This new medical world may be totally unfamiliar to you, and you'll probably have a lot of questions. Here's some information to prepare you for what lies ahead.
Healthline
2018-07-05
/en/sources/healthline-understanding-er-positive-breast-cancer
Understanding ER-positive breast cancer
Hormone receptors play a role in many types of breast cancer. These cancers tend to respond well to certain treatments. Learn more here.
Medical News Today
2019-08-19