About HER2/neu

What is HER2/neu?

HER2/neu, also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, is a protein that is encoded by the HER2 gene. It is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family of proteins. HER2/neu plays a crucial role in cell growth, division, and repair.

Abnormalities in the HER2/neu gene can lead to overexpression or amplification of the HER2/neu protein. This overexpression is observed in certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer. Approximately 20-25% of breast cancer cases show HER2/neu overexpression.

HER2/neu overexpression is associated with more aggressive tumor growth, increased risk of metastasis, and poorer prognosis. However, it also serves as a therapeutic target. Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) and pertuzum

What are the symptoms of HER2/neu?

HER2/neu, also known as HER2-positive breast cancer, is a type of breast cancer that is characterized by the overexpression of the HER2/neu gene. The symptoms of HER2/neu breast cancer are similar to other types of breast cancer and may include:

1. Breast lump or thickening: A noticeable lump or Thickening in the breast or underarm area.
2. Breast pain or tenderness: Unexplained pain or Tenderness in the breast.
3. Changes in breast size or shape: Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
4. Nipple changes: Changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.
5. Skin changes: Redness, dimpling, or puckering of the breast skin.
6. Swelling: Swelling or lumps in the lymph nodes under the arm or around the collarbone

Is there a cure/medications for HER2/neu?

Yes, there are targeted therapies available for HER2/neu-positive breast cancer. The main treatment options include:

1. Trastuzumab (Herceptin): This is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the HER2/neu protein. It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy to treat HER2-positive breast cancer.

2. Pertuzumab (Perjeta): This is another monoclonal antibody that targets HER2/neu and is often used in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy for HER2-positive breast cancer.

3. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1 or Kadcyla): This is an antibody-drug conjugate that combines trastuzumab with a chemotherapy drug. It is used for HER2-positive breast cancer that has progressed after treatment with trastuzumab

What are the causes of HER2/neu?

HER2/neu, also known as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, is a protein that plays a role in cell growth and division. The overexpression or amplification of the HER2/neu gene is associated with certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer. The causes of HER2/neu overexpression or amplification are not fully understood, but several factors have been identified:

1. Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have inherited genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing HER2/neu-positive cancers. For example, certain mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of HER2/neu-positive breast cancer.

2. Hormonal factors: Hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can influence the expression of HER2/neu. Estrogen, in particular, has been shown to upregulate

What are the risk factors for HER2/neu?

The risk factors for HER2/neu (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) overexpression or amplification include:

1. Gender: HER2/neu overexpression is more common in women than in men.
2. Age: The risk of HER2/neu overexpression increases with age, particularly in postmenopausal women.
3. Hormonal factors: High levels of estrogen and progesterone can increase the risk of HER2/neu overexpression.
4. Family history: Having a family history of breast cancer, particularly with HER2/neu-positive tumors, may increase the risk.
5. Genetic mutations: Certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, are associated with an increased risk of HER2/neu-positive breast cancer.
6. Race/ethnicity: HER2/neu overexpression is more common in certain

What are the treatments for HER2/neu?

The treatment options for HER2/neu (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) positive breast cancer include:

1. Targeted therapy: HER2-targeted therapies are the mainstay of treatment for HER2/neu positive breast cancer. These drugs specifically target the HER2 protein and inhibit its activity. Examples of targeted therapies include trastuzumab (Herceptin), pertuzumab (Perjeta), and ado-trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla).

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs may be used in combination with targeted therapies to further enhance the treatment response. Commonly used chemotherapy drugs for HER2/neu positive breast cancer include docetaxel, paclitaxel, and anthracyclines.

3. Hormone therapy: If the breast cancer is also hormone receptor positive (estrogen receptor

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