How do I distinguish between HR-positive and HR-negative BC?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been hearing a lot about HR-positive and HR-negative breast cancer, and honestly, I am a bit confused.

What is the actual difference between the two?
I know one has something to do with hormones, but I am not sure how that changes things. Does it mean that if it is HR-positive, it is easier to treat, or does it just need a different approach?
Planning to volunteer at a palliative care place during the next break, we were asked to read up on these. I feel like every time I hear the word "cancer," it brings a lot of stress, and I just want to understand what is involved in dealing with these different types. Could you explain it to me in simple terms?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I understand how hearing about breast cancer, particularly terms like HR-positive (hormone receptor-positive) and HR-negative (hormone receptor-negative), can be overwhelming. Let me explain it in a simple way to help you get a better understanding as you prepare for your volunteer work in palliative care.

HR-positive vs. HR-negative breast cancer:

HR-positive: This type of breast cancer type of breast cancer types of breast cancer has cancer cells that have receptors for hormones, specifically estrogen (ER) and/or progesterone (PR). These hormones help the cancer grow, but because the cancer relies on them, we can treat it by blocking or reducing hormone levels in the body. This makes hormone therapy an effective treatment option for HR-positive breast cancer. Hormone therapy, like Tamoxifen (selective estrogen receptor modulators) or aromatase inhibitors, blocks the effects of estrogen or reduces the amount of estrogen in the body, which helps stop the cancer from growing. HR-positive breast cancers tend to be more responsive to treatment and often have a better prognosis compared to other types.
HR-negative: In this type, the cancer cells do not have receptors for estrogen or progesterone, so hormone therapy will not work. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes targeted therapies. HR-negative cancers tend to be more aggressive and harder to treat, as they do not respond to the hormone-blocking treatments that are effective in HR-positive cancers.

Generally, HR-positive breast cancer is considered easier to treat compared to HR-negative breast cancer because it responds well to hormone therapy, which is a relatively well-tolerated and effective treatment option. HR-negative cancers require more aggressive treatments like chemotherapy, which can be harder on the body. How does it affect the treatment:

HR-positive: Often treated with hormone therapy, surgery, radiation, and sometimes chemotherapy if the cancer is more advanced.
HR-negative: Typically treated with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes targeted therapies, but not hormone therapy.

Understanding cancer in palliative care:

In a palliative care setting, the focus is on improving the quality of life for patients, managing symptoms, and providing emotional and psychological support, regardless of the type of cancer. Whether a patient has HR-positive or HR-negative cancer, the emphasis will often be on pain management, comfort, and helping patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease.

A physical examination by an oncologist in a hospital is a must.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.