Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Treatment FAQ’s

Is Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment Treatable?

Yes, Triple Negative Breast Cancer is indeed treatable. At Sunridge Medical, we are fully aware that this subtype can be more complex to manage due to its absence of estrogen and progesterone receptors, as well as the HER2 protein, which are common targets in other breast cancer treatments. Our treatment strategies for Triple Negative Breast Cancer generally encompass a combination approach including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The outlook for each patient is unique and varies based on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed and the response to the treatments administered.

What are Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatments? 

At Sunridge Medical, we personalize our treatment options for Triple Negative Breast Cancer based on the individual needs of each patient. The following are typical components of our treatment regimens:

• Surgery: Removal of cancer through procedures like lumpectomy or mastectomy is often the first line of attack. We aim to eliminate the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue to ensure comprehensive removal.

• Chemotherapy: This systemic treatment is critical and can be administered either before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor, or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to deal with any remaining cancer cells and minimize the chance of recurrence.

• Radiation Therapy: Post-surgical radiation is frequently employed to target residual cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or axillary lymph nodes. It can also be the primary treatment approach for certain cases where surgery isn’t an option.

• Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapies: Although these treatments are relatively new and not universally applicable, we consider them when appropriate. For example, there are medications like PARP inhibitors that may benefit some patients with BRCA mutations.

• Naturopathic Immunotherapy: For the treatment of cancer, immunotherapy refers to the treatment of the immune system in an attempt to stimulate the immune system so that it can effectively reject and destroy tumors. The immune system is a very complex system of cells flowing through the body that not only provides defense against foreign invaders but also must also be functioning at its best to protect against many disease states such as autoimmune diseases. Read more about Naturopathic Immunotherapy

Can Naturopathic Medicine Work for Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

Naturopathic medicine takes an integrative approach, combining natural therapeutics with modern science to provide personalized care. For women with TripleNegative Breast Cancer TNBC, this approach can offer adjunctive support in managing side effects of conventional treatments, boosting the immune system, and addressing overall health. Anyone diagnosed with TNBC needs to work closely with a healthcare team, including a naturopathic physician, to develop an individualized treatment plan.

At Sunridge Medical, we are committed to keeping abreast of these developments and incorporating the latest evidence-based treatments into our practice, always tailored to our patients’ unique situations. Regular collaborative meetings with our team ensure that our patients receive the most advanced and appropriate care for their condition.

Can I take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)?

No, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is generally not advised for patients who have been treated for Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). TNBC lacks the receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and HER2, which often makes it unresponsive to hormonal therapies. Since HRT involves supplementing the body with estrogen and/or progesterone, there’s a concern that this could stimulate the growth of any residual cancer cells, increasing the risk of recurrence. It is crucial to discuss all treatment options, including the risks and benefits, with your oncologist or healthcare provider before considering HRT.

Can oxygen help with Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is being explored as a supportive treatment for Triple Negative Breast Cancer. During HBOT, patients breathe pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, which saturates the blood and body tissues with oxygen. While the primary aim is to enhance wound healing and fight infection, research into its effects on cancer is ongoing, and some studies suggest it might enhance the efficacy of certain cancer therapies. However, HBOT is not a standalone treatment for TNBC, and more research is necessary to determine its potential role in managing this specific cancer type.

Can Triple Negative Breast Cancer be Treated with Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy has become an exciting area of advancement in the treatment of certain cancers, including Triple Negative Breast Cancer. This approach harnesses the power of the body’s own immune system to identify and attack cancer cells. It’s not suitable for every TNBC patient but has shown promise in some cases, particularly when the cancer expresses certain proteins that make it more visible to the immune system.  If you’re considering immunotherapy, call our Patient Care Team at Sunridge to discuss the potential benefits and whether it’s appropriate for your situation.

It’s always important to consult closely with your healthcare team before starting or stopping any treatment to ensure it aligns with your overall care plan. At Sunridge Medical, we provide personalized care and can help you understand all available treatment and supportive care options and welcome working with your cancer care team and other providers.