HORMONE RECEPTOR STATUS:

Hormonal status refers to the estrogen receptor (ER) or progesterone receptor (PR) status of an invasive breast cancer. Patients whose tumors are found to be estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+) or progesterone-receptor-positive (PR+) can be treated by hormonal therapy to help prevent distant spread of the tumor. Treatment for ER+/PR+ patients in the adjuvant setting with invasive breast cancer includes estrogen-receptor blockade with medications like tamoxifen. Newer effective hormonal therapy includes arromatase inhibitors such as Arimidex ®, letrozole, or exemestane. They are used to prevent your body from making estrogen. They are given with or without chemotherapy. Hormonal therapy can also be given safely with radiation.

Additional tests may include S-Phase, Ki67, and HER2/neu. You measure the S-Phase or Ki67 to give an indication of how rapidly the cancerous cells are dividing. The HER 2 gene product can be tested for over expression, which is associated with tumors that are more aggressive. Seventy-five percent of breast cancer tumors are HER 2 negative. Metastatic breast cancer that is HER 2 positive can also be treated with Herceptin (trastuzumab). Herceptin is also being given along with chemotherapy and hormonal therapy in the adjuvant setting, as well as with metastatic disease.

Knowing the exact stage, grade, and hormonal status of your cancer helps you and your doctor plan your treatment. After your breast cancer staging is completed, your doctor will know the following:

  • How small or large your tumor is.
  • The type, grade, and stage of your cancer.
  • The estrogen and progesterone (ER+ and PR+), Ki67 or S-Phase, and HER 2 status of your breast tumor.
  • Where it was found in your breast.
  • If cancer is found in the lymph nodes in your armpit.
  • If cancer is found in other parts of your body.
  • Your age and menopausal status (whether or not you still have monthly periods).
  • Your general state of health
  • Whether you have previously been treated for breast cancer or another form of cancer or a blood condition
If your biopsy is negative, cancer was not found. It will be important for you to see your physician in 3-6 months to re-examine the lump, to have routine mammograms, and to complete your monthly breast self-exams for any future sign of change.
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Florida Breast Institute
201 14th Street SW
Largo, FL 33770
Telephone: (727) 588-5200
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