Triple-negative breast cancer

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Triple-negative breast cancer is a less common type of breast cancer. Triple-negative means that the breast cancer cells don't have three things—estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, or large amounts of HER-2 protein.

This type of breast cancer tends to spread more quickly than other types. Treatments such as hormone therapy and some medicines that target HER-2 don't work well on this type of cancer. But chemotherapy can be effective. In some cases, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be an option.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.