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Triple negative breast cancer is a specific type of breast cancer that tests negatively for three specific hormone receptors: estrogen, progesterone and hormone epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2/neu). This is significant because these hormone receptors, which are usually found inside and on the surface of healthy breast cells, receive messages when exposed to the corresponding hormones and, based on that information, provide instructions to the cells to help them grow and function properly.

Estrogen, progesterone and HER-2/neu hormones are believed to stimulate breast cancer growth. Because triple negative breast cancer lacks receptors for these hormones, many commonly recommended breast cancer treatments, such as hormone therapy and drugs that target estrogen, progesterone and HER-2/neu, are ineffective for treating the condition. However, in many cases, surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy remain viable treatment options.


How Is Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treated at Moffitt Cancer Center?

The Don & Erika Wallace Comprehensive Breast Program at Moffitt Cancer Center is administered by a multispecialty group of professionals who are dedicated to providing treatment and care for patients with all types of breast cancer, including triple negative cancers. In a single location, Moffitt’s patients have access to multiple expert opinions from highly specialized medical oncologists, radiologists, fellowship-trained surgeons, radiation oncologists, plastic surgeons, nurses, social workers and many other health care professionals.

Moffitt’s patient-centered approach is both effective and unique because:

  • Our multispecialty team provides patients with a comprehensive range of services for all aspects of breast cancer care in one place, including screening and diagnostic tests as well as the latest treatment options.
  • Our cancer specialists take a highly collaborative approach by meeting weekly as a tumor board to review each patient’s case and progress. As a result, our patient care is individualized and precise, which leads to better patient outcomes and a higher quality of life.
  • Our patients and their families can receive compassionate support from our dedicated social workers, family advisors, massage therapists, nutrition counselors and other professionals.

As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center – the only one based in Florida – Moffitt is widely recognized as a leader in cancer research. We offer robust clinical trials through which our patients can be among the first to benefit from promising new treatments, and our researchers and clinicians are continually making new discoveries that serve to advance medical science.

If you have questions about triple negative breast cancer, call 1-888-663-3488 or request to schedule an appointment online to consult with our breast cancer experts.