Understanding the Different Subtypes of Breast Cancer: Why It Matters for Your Treatment

By Dr. Suman S. Karanth, Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram

When we talk about breast cancer, it's important to understand that it's not a single disease. In fact, breast cancer comes in many different subtypes, each requiring a unique treatment approach. Identifying the correct subtype is a critical step in planning the most effective therapy for patients.

Why Knowing the Subtype Is Crucial

Every breast cancer subtype behaves differently and responds differently to treatments. The treatment options—such as hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy—are based on which type of breast cancer a person has.

Let’s take a closer look at the main subtypes:

1. Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer (HR+)

This is one of the most common types and is also known as ER+/PR+ HER2- breast cancer. In this subtype, the cancer cells grow in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. These cases often respond well to hormonal therapy.

2. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

In this more aggressive subtype, the cancer cells lack estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors (ER-/PR-/HER2-). Because it doesn’t respond to hormonal or HER2-targeted treatments, chemotherapy is usually the main form of treatment.

3. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

This subtype is characterized by overexpression of the HER2 protein (HER2+, may be ER-/PR- or ER+/PR+). HER2-positive cancers tend to grow and spread faster, but they can be treated effectively with HER2-targeted therapies.

Making the Right Treatment Choices

Identifying the subtype of breast cancer helps oncologists determine:

Whether hormonal therapy is appropriate

Whether chemotherapy is needed

If targeted therapies, such as HER2 inhibitors, can be used

In short, knowing the exact type of breast cancer ensures a more personalized, effective treatment plan, leading to better outcomes.

Need Expert Advice?

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