Irving, TX, Aug.18, 2017 — A recent scientific discovery may hold the key to why some cases of triple negative breast cancer are so difficult to treat while others respond well to medical interventions. A particular receptor that some women have may explain the differences in outcome.

A recent study involving nearly 600 women with triple negative breast cancer uncovered the potential importance the prolactin hormone may play in this potentially deadly disease. Triple negative breast cancer involves a tumor that is estrogen receptor-negative, progesterone receptor-negative and HER2-negative. When these three factors combine, tumors are typically considered the most aggressive and problematic to treat. That, however, is not always the case. The study found that prolactin effectively reduced the aggressive behavior of cancerous cells while also decreasing the ability for cells to divide.

“The findings are very encouraging in that they may pave the way for better treatment and more positive outcomes for women diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Choice Cancer Care. “The receptor’s presence or absence may someday help determine which patients require more rigorous interventions and which might benefit from a less-aggressive course of action. The hormone itself may also hold the key to more effective treatments.”

While researchers say more study is required to understand the role prolactin may play in triple negative breast cancer, they are suggesting that screening for the hormone and its receptor could be beneficial in guiding treatment decisions.

It is estimated that more than 252,000 American women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the coming year. Women are urged to talk with their doctors about routine screening. Early diagnosis, even of triple negative breast cancer, may lead to more positive patient outcomes.

About Choice Cancer Care
Choice Cancer Care is an independent, physician-owned cancer center network. Dr. Gregory Echt, a radiation oncologist with over two decades of experience, is the founder of Choice Cancer Care. Choice Cancer Care is among the busiest practices in the country for brachytherapy, or prostate seed implant therapy – a cancer treatment plan for prostate cancer that provides remarkable success rates and fewer life-limiting side effects.