A diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) brings many questions for a family. This note explains the basics in simple words.

What makes it "triple-negative"?
TNBC cells do not have the three receptors that most breast cancers have: estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR) and HER2. For this reason hormone tablets and HER2-targeted drugs do not help. Doctors depend on surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy and some newer targeted treatments instead.

Who gets it?
About 10–15% of all breast cancers are TNBC. It is more common in younger women and in women who carry a BRCA1 gene change. It tends to grow quickly and can come back after treatment, so regular follow-up with the oncologist matters.

Please see a doctor soon if you notice:
- a hard lump in the breast or armpit
- a change in the size or shape of a breast
- skin that is red, swollen or looks like orange peel
- a nipple that turns inward or leaks fluid

Newer options when the cancer has spread
For metastatic TNBC, after two or more earlier treatments (at least one given for the spread disease), oncologists may talk about sacituzumab govitecan. It is an antibody-drug conjugate, which carries chemotherapy straight to the cancer cell. The US FDA approved it for this use in April 2020. It is not registered in India yet. A patient can still receive it legally through a named patient import, in the patient's own name and on the oncologist's prescription. It must stay cold (2–8°C) the whole way. Details on Trodelvy in India: https://namedpatientprogram.com/m/oncology/trodelvy

This is general health information and not medical advice. Your oncologist decides what treatment is right.

Named Patient Program (NPP), Ikris Pharma Network, Noida
Phone: +91 9310090915. A doctor's prescription is required.