Making Informed Surgical Decisions for TNBC: Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy

Making Informed Surgical Decisions for TNBC: Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy

"What are the reoccuring percentages with TNBC as far as surgery goes? Complete Mastectomy vs. lumpectomy? Thanks so much!"

TNBC (triple-negative breast cancer) itself does not directly impact the choice between lumpectomy and mastectomy. Factors such as tumor size, local characteristics, genetic predisposition, and cosmetic outcomes should be taken into consideration. Remember to have an open and thorough discussion with your surgeon to make a decision that best suits your individual situation. In cases where there is a genetic predisposition for breast cancer, that pushes the decision toward mastectomy.

TNBC is hormone receptor negative and Her2 receptor negative tumor cells.
ER(-)  PR(-)  H2(-)
These receptors are important information about the biology of the tumor cells. TNBC means that the particular tumor does not respond to hormonal blockers or Her2 targeted therapy and must be treated with chemotherapy.

Breast cancer can recur either locally or in distant sites. Local means in the breast or remaining skin or chest wall if a mastectomy was done. Distant means outside the breast area such as bones or other sites. Chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and other targeted therapies are primarily directed at tumor cells outside of the breast area.

Tumor occurring outside the breast is stage 4 disease, also call MBC (metastatic breast cancer).

Surgery and radiation are primarily targeting the local disease. A TNBC should respond to those procedures similarly to any other breast cancer. The designation of TNBC does not directly impact the decision about which surgical procedure is better. Both lumpectomy and mastectomy have similar long-term distant recurrence rates.

Tumors that are not ideal for lumpectomy would be tumors that are in multiple places in the breast or filling a large enough area that a good cosmetic result cannot be obtained. These are examples of the types of things to take into consideration when making the decision.

Note: The information provided here serves as a general guide. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.