What is the prognosis of TNBC in a 55-year-old woman?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 55-year-old cousin recently discovered a lump in her breast along with changes in her nipple. After consulting a doctor, she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which I have heard is an aggressive form of breast cancer.

Is that true?
Her doctor has recommended chemotherapy, along with medication and surgery. Will this treatment be effective?
Is this type of cancer curable, and what is the life expectancy after diagnosis?
What lifestyle changes should she consider following treatment?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iclinic.com.

I went through your query.

You have mentioned that she has a lump in her breast with discharge and has been diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. This type of cancer means that the tumor is negative for estrogen and progesterone hormone receptors, as well as HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2), making it an aggressive form that requires an intensive treatment approach, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and surgery (mastectomy).

The prognosis for triple-negative breast cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate. However, the outcome also depends on factors like the size of the lump, involvement of axillary lymph nodes, the status of the contralateral breast and axilla, and any distant metastasis.

Please share any additional investigations or test results that may have been done.

Regarding her lifestyle, it is important for her to focus on eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing weight, limiting smoking and alcohol consumption, and minimizing exposure to environmental toxins. She should also avoid radiation and have regular breast clinical examinations. She should do a mammogram and genetic testing for BRCA (breast cancer gene)1 and BRCA 2 genes.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.