What Does It Mean to Have HER2-Positive Breast Cancer?

Having HER2-positive breast cancer means that your cancer cells have a higher than normal amount of a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). HER2 is a protein that helps control cell growth, and when there is too much of it, it can cause cancer cells to grow and spread more quickly.

HER2-positive breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that is typically more aggressive than other types of breast cancer, but it is also more likely to respond to certain treatments, such as targeted therapy drugs like Herceptin (trastuzumab).

If you have been diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. There are a number of different treatment options available for HER2-positive breast cancer, and the best treatment for you will depend on a number of factors, including your overall health, the stage of your cancer, and your preferences.

Treatment options for HER2-positive breast cancer may include:

* Surgery to remove the tumor and any affected lymph nodes

* Radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells

* Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells throughout the body

* Targeted therapy drugs, such as Herceptin, that block the growth of HER2-positive breast cancer cells

The goal of treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer is to remove or control the cancer and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. With the right treatment, many people with HER2-positive breast cancer are able to live long and full lives.