HER2 low breast cancer refers to a subtype of breast cancer where there is a low expression of the HER2 protein. HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) is a protein that, when overexpressed, drives the growth of certain types of breast cancer. In HER2 low breast cancer, there is less HER2 expression, which may influence treatment strategies.
Step 1: Understanding HER2 Low Expression:
HER2 low cancers show some level of HER2 expression but not enough to be classified as HER2-positive. This category is distinct from HER2-negative breast cancer, where no HER2 overexpression is detected.
Step 2: Treatment Options for HER2 Low Cancer:
1. Targeted therapies: New therapies like trastuzumab deruxtecan are being investigated for their effectiveness in HER2 low breast cancer, showing promising results in clinical trials.
2. Chemotherapy: Traditional chemotherapy may be used in cases where HER2-targeted treatments are not effective.
Step 3: Prognosis and Challenges:
HER2 low breast cancer is still being studied, and treatment regimens continue to evolve. While patients with HER2 low cancers may have better outcomes than those with HER2-positive cancers, more research is needed to understand optimal treatment approaches and improve survival rates.