An exclusive “Ask the Expert” Q&A session with the esteemed medical oncologist from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Dr. Tiffany Traina, a luminary in the field of oncology, particularly in the battle against TNBC.

Below is a summary of the discussion with Dr. Traina.

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a unique and aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Unlike other types, TNBC lacks the hormone receptors for estrogen and progesterone and does not overexpress the HER2 protein, which are typical markers in other breast cancers. This means TNBC does not respond to hormonal therapies or HER2-targeted treatments. Because TNBC is defined by what it isn’t, ongoing research is working to further classify its subtypes to better guide treatment decisions.

Key Prognosis and Treatment Developments

Recent advancements in treatment for TNBC, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy combinations, have improved survival rates and quality of life for early-stage patients. For those with early-stage TNBC (stages 1-3), the goal of treatment is often curative, utilizing surgery, chemotherapy, and potentially immunotherapy. Despite this, the risk of recurrence varies based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and individual patient factors.

For metastatic TNBC, while a cure remains elusive, new therapies continually improve outcomes, allowing many patients to live longer and with a higher quality of life. Importantly, up-to-date treatment options have surpassed older statistics often found online, so patients should consult healthcare providers for the most current data tailored to their case.

Understanding TNBC Grading

TNBC tumors are graded on a scale from 1 to 3, reflecting how closely cancer cells resemble normal breast cells. Higher grades, such as grade 3, are more common in TNBC and are associated with greater aggression and poorer differentiation. However, TNBC is heterogeneous, with some lower-grade subtypes exhibiting slower growth patterns, which may influence treatment options and outcomes.

Personalized Care in TNBC

Each TNBC case is unique, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare teams to interpret pathology reports and understand treatment implications. As research progresses, more tools become available to tailor TNBC treatment, helping patients to pursue care that aligns with their personal values and health goals.

The Future of TNBC Treatment

As TNBC research advances, patients can expect more targeted and effective options. Staying informed through ongoing medical guidance ensures the best possible treatment pathway for those affected by this complex breast cancer subtype.