Definition:
- A subtype of breast cancer characterized by the absence of estrogen receptors (ER−), progesterone receptors (PR−), and HER2 receptor (HER2−) on tumor cells.
Clinical Features:
- Typically more aggressive and with higher recurrence rates than other breast cancer subtypes.
- More common in younger women and certain ethnic groups (e.g., African American).
- Limited targeted therapy options compared to hormone receptor-positive or HER2-positive breast cancers.
Treatment Considerations:
- Chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment (e.g., anthracyclines, taxanes, platinum agents).
- Emerging options include immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab) in PD-L1 positive tumors.
- No role for endocrine therapy or HER2-targeted agents due to lack of target receptors.
Pharmacist Role:
- Monitor and manage chemotherapy toxicities, including neutropenia and neuropathy.
- Educate patients about immunotherapy side effects and need for adherence.
- Support adherence to aggressive treatment regimens and symptom management.
Synonyms
TNBC