What makes Triple Negative Breast Cancer different from other types of breast cancer?

By: Dr. Thomas Incledon

What makes Triple Negative Breast Cancer different from other types of breast cancer?

In order to understand how Triple Negative Breast Cancer is different from other types of breast cancer, it is important to understand that cancer cells are made up of different proteins and have various combinations of receptors based on a person’s genetics. So, when a woman is diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, that means her cancer cells tested negative for three different types of receptors commonly found in breast cancer cells: HER2, estrogen, and progesterone.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer occurs in about 10% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. This diagnosis often causes fear in patients and their families because the long-term prognosis with Triple Negative Breast Cancer is less positive than with other breast cancers. This is mainly because it is harder to treat since it lacks the receptors that common oral breast cancer medications were made to target.

However, there are still options for patients with Triple Negative Breast Cancer that can be effective in treating the cancer. Dr. Tom Incledon, Founder & CEO of Causenta, explains that natural substances such as platinum compounds appear to improve outcomes dramatically. “I urge patients with Triple Negative Breast Cancer to find a team that will really work with you,” he says. “With a cancer like this that can be difficult to treat, you have to be open to trying different strategies and have your progress monitored by physicians that actually care if they are making progress at killing the cancer in your body.”

Another factor that makes Triple Negative Breast Cancer unique is its connection to the BRCA1 gene mutation. Women who test positive for the gene mutation are more likely to develop Triple Negative Breast Cancer, which has lower survival rates after 5 years using standard, conventional treatment methods.

The BRCA1 gene can be tested for as a preventative measure in young women. While Incledon is an advocate of early detection and cancer prevention, he advises caution with this strategy. “Just because you remove certain tissues, it does not mean cancer cells won’t still exist in the blood,” he says. “You should be sure you know the full picture of having a drastic surgery like a mastectomy before you opt for it, especially before cancer is detected.”  

The gene mutation can also be detected during the biopsy process. “If a woman feels a lump in her breast, the doctor will order a biopsy, and the lab will test it for various genes,” explains Incledon. If the biopsy reveals a patient has the BRCA1 mutation, it can help inform the patient and the treatment team on the best possible next steps, one of which is to test for Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer is also different from other types of breast cancer because it is most common in women under 40. This statistic makes awareness and understanding of the importance of regular breast checks especially important for young women.

To understand more about personalized treatment options for Triple Negative Breast Cancer with Causenta, schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation.

About the Author

Dr. Thomas is the founder and CEO of Causenta Wellness and the Causenta Cancer Treatment Center in Arizona. From working with the NFL, MLB, MMA, World Class athletes, and even the White House, his reputation for personalized medicine and cutting-edge technologies has put him on the map, caring for some of the most powerful people in the world, making him one of the most sought-after healthcare professionals of all time.

About Causenta

At Causenta, we recognize that no two patients are alike. Our approach is unique in that we specialize treatment for each patient based on extensive testing. For over 17 years, our team of experienced and highly trained doctors have combined traditional medicine and alternative therapies to provide the highest quality care. Here you’ll find the latest technologies and a state-of-the-art facility combined with treatment protocols not found anywhere else in the world. Causenta is dedicated to strengthening both body and mind while focusing on personalized medicine to provide patients with the right treatment for even the rare conditions.

Whether you are fighting to win a gold medal in the Olympics or fighting for your life to beat cancer, Causenta is the right place for you.

Causentacta 1

KEEP UP WITH CAUSENTA

Get the latest news in medical technology, strength training, exercise, and nutrition.

CONTACT US

For current patients, please send a secure message via The Patient Portal. New patients should complete our contact form to schedule a consult with the appropriate person.

OUR LOCATION

8131 E Indian Bend Rd #126
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
USA