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Should a 45-year-old woman worry about TNBC risk?

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Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 45-year-old. I was at my gynecologist’s office for my yearly PAP and mammogram, and I saw something about triple-negative breast cancer. What does it mean? Should I be worried? I have heard some cancers are more aggressive, and I want to make sure I am aware of what to look out for. Is it harder to treat?

Kindly suggest.

Thanks.
Answered by Dr. Sugandh Garg

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a specific type of breast cancer where the tumor cells lack three important receptors: estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2).

This means the cancer does not respond to hormonal therapies that target ER and PR or to drugs that target HER2 receptors, which are common treatment options for other types of breast cancer. Because TNBC lacks these receptors, it is generally considered more aggressive and can spread faster than other types of breast cancer. It is treatable with chemotherapy and is often effective, especially when caught early.

Signs to watch out for include lumps, changes in breast shape, skin dimpling, or nipple discharge. However, these signs are not specific to TNBC and can occur in other types of breast cancer as well. Early detection is the best way to stay on top of any breast cancer, including TNBC. A physical examination by an oncologist in a hospital is a must.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At October 8, 2024
Reviewed At November 25, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sugandh Garg
Dr. Sugandh Garg

Internal Medicine

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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