Professional
Technical
IVT
HER2-positive
Describes breast cancer cells that overexpress human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 protein.
Full Definition
HER2-positive refers to breast cancers where tumor cells have an overexpression or amplification of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. This occurs in approximately 20% of breast cancers and indicates a more aggressive cancer type that grows faster than HER2-negative cancers. HER2-positive status is determined through immunohistochemistry or fluorescence in situ hybridization testing and guides targeted therapy decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as an adjective; capitalize HER2.
In Context
- "The patient's tumor was confirmed as HER2-positive through FISH testing." — Pathology report
- "Trastuzumab is indicated for HER2-positive breast cancer treatment." — Treatment protocol
Also known as
HER2/neu-positive
ERBB2-positive
Contrasted with
HER2-negative
Don't confuse with
HER2-negative
HR-positive