Will My HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Spread?

HER2-positive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that expresses high levels of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. HER2 is a protein that promotes the growth and survival of cancer cells. HER2-positive breast cancer is more likely to spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, brain, liver, and bones, than HER2-negative breast cancer.

However, the risk of metastasis (spread) depends on a number of factors, including the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor, the presence of lymph node involvement, and the patient's age and overall health. With advances in treatment, many people with HER2-positive breast cancer are able to achieve long-term survival.

Treatment options for HER2-positive breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy (such as Herceptin), and hormone therapy. The goal of treatment is to remove or shrink the tumor, prevent its spread, and relieve symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks of metastasis and the treatment options available to you.