Triple-negative breast cancer explained
What "triple-negative" means and how it's usually approached
The short version
Triple-negative means the cancer tested negative for ER, PR, and HER2. Hormone therapy and HER2-targeted therapy typically aren't expected to help, so treatment usually centers on chemotherapy, and sometimes immunotherapy.
"Triple-negative" describes a breast cancer that tests negative for , , and — the three biomarkers most treatments target. It's one subtype among several, and it's more common in some groups, including younger women and some Black women, though it can occur in anyone.
Why it matters
Because triple-negative cancers don't have these receptors, hormone therapy and HER2-targeted drugs typically aren't expected to help. Chemotherapy is often the main treatment, and immunotherapy may be an option for some people — your care team can explain what applies to your specific case.
Triple-negative breast cancers are sometimes associated with an inherited BRCA1 mutation, so genetic counseling and testing may be discussed as part of your workup.
Questions you may want to ask
What treatment approach do you recommend for triple-negative disease?
Should I consider genetic counseling or testing?
Am I a candidate for immunotherapy or a clinical trial?