Some breast cancers are more aggressive than others. One of them is called HER2-positive breast cancer.
This type grows and spreads faster. But here’s the good news—it often responds well to targeted treatments.
In this blog, I’ll explain what HER2-positive breast cancer means, how it’s treated, and what you can expect if you or a loved one is diagnosed.
What Does HER2-Positive Mean?
HER2 stands for Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2. It’s a protein that helps cancer cells grow.
Normally, we all have the HER2 gene. But in some people, it makes too much protein—this is called HER2 overexpression.
That leads to faster cell growth and a more aggressive form of breast cancer. When a tumor tests positive for HER2, it’s called HER2-positive breast cancer.
Why Is HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Aggressive?
This type grows and spreads quickly because of extra HER2 protein on cancer cells.
Without treatment, it can spread to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, or bones faster than other types.
But this form of cancer also has a clear target—the HER2 protein. That’s why doctors now use targeted therapy to fight it.
Common Symptoms of HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
HER2-positive breast cancer often doesn’t feel different from other types. You might notice:
- A lump in your breast or armpit
- Breast swelling or redness
- Skin dimpling (like an orange peel)
- Nipple discharge or change in shape
- Pain in the breast or nipple
Early signs can be missed, so routine screenings like mammograms are essential.
How It’s Diagnosed
Doctors use these tests to check if a tumor is HER2-positive:
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Measures HER2 protein levels
- FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization): Looks for gene changes
If the results show too much HER2 protein or extra HER2 genes, the tumor is confirmed as HER2-positive.
HER2 Breast Cancer Treatment Options
1. Targeted Therapy
This is the game-changer. Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) or pertuzumab (Perjeta) target the HER2 protein directly.
They help stop the growth of cancer cells while leaving healthy cells mostly alone.
2. Chemotherapy
Usually given with targeted therapy, chemo helps kill fast-growing cancer cells, especially in the early stages.
3. Hormone Therapy
If your cancer is also hormone receptor-positive, hormone therapy like tamoxifen may be added.
4. Surgery
Depending on the tumor’s size, doctors may recommend lumpectomy (removal of the lump) or mastectomy (removal of the breast).
5. Radiation Therapy
Used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Is HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Curable?
Yes, many cases are curable—especially when caught early.
Targeted treatments have changed the outlook for HER2-positive patients. Some people go into complete remission after treatment.
Even for advanced stages, new drugs are helping people live longer and better lives.
Living With HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Being diagnosed is scary. But you’re not alone. Here’s what can help:
- Stay informed about your treatment
- Join support groups to talk with others
- Eat healthy, rest well, and move your body gently
- Ask your doctor about clinical trials or new drugs
- Take things one step at a time
Common Questions
Q: What causes HER2-positive breast cancer?
A: It’s usually not inherited. Most cases happen randomly when HER2 gene overproduces protein.
Q: Does HER2-positive cancer come back?
A: It can. But with targeted treatment, recurrence risk is much lower today than it was years ago.
Q: Who’s at risk?
A: HER2-positive breast cancer can affect anyone, but is more common in younger women and those with dense breast tissue.
Conclusion
HER2-positive breast cancer may grow faster—but thanks to science, it’s one of the most treatable aggressive breast cancers today.
The key is early detection and the right combination of targeted therapy, chemo, and support.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed, don’t lose hope. Ask questions. Stay informed. The treatment path may be hard—but there is real progress, and real reason to believe.
