Tumor Markers in Breast Cancer
Tumor Marker Testing (TMT) for breast cancer is usually carried out on freshly or stored biopsied samples. Alongside TMT, other clinical studies can also be carried out on these biopsied samples.
It is recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) that TMT be done on patients diagnosed with breast cancer. It is an efficient method that can help to predict the dynamics of tumor growth and also to decide the best choice of treatment. It also helps to decide the intensity and the time of treatment.
The Tumor markers evaluated for breast cancer include:
- Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2 (HER2)
- Hormone receptors for Estrogen (ER)
- Progesterone (PR)
The markers are usually studied by taking a biopsy from the tumor and getting an opinion from an expert histo-pathologist.
Tumors that are positive for receptors carry good prognosis, while those are negative, have poor prognosis.
