Professional
Technical
IVT
triple-negative breast cancer
Breast cancer subtype lacking estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 protein overexpression.
Full Definition
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that tests negative for estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Representing approximately 15% of all breast cancers, TNBC tends to grow and spread faster than other breast cancer types and has fewer targeted treatment options. This subtype is more common in younger women, African American women, and those with BRCA1 mutations.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as adjective; TNBC is acceptable abbreviation in clinical contexts.
In Context
- "The oncologist explained that triple-negative breast cancer requires chemotherapy as the primary treatment." — Patient consultation note
- "TNBC accounts for approximately 15% of invasive breast cancers." — Clinical research paper
Also known as
TNBC
basal-like breast cancer
Contrasted with
hormone receptor-positive breast cancer
Don't confuse with
triple-positive breast cancer
HER2-negative breast cancer