How Do Biomarkers Change Breast Cancer Diagnosis?
How Do Biomarkers Change Breast Cancer Diagnosis?
The Power of Biomarkers
Biomarkers are changing the way breast cancer is diagnosed and treated. Discover their role in the modern TNM staging system.
Contents
- Understanding Biomarkers
- The Inclusion of Biomarkers in Staging
- How Biomarkers Influence Treatment
Understanding Biomarkers
Biomarkers are biological molecules found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues. They are signs of a normal or abnormal process or of a condition or disease. In breast cancer, common biomarkers include hormone receptors like estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). These markers help doctors understand how aggressive the cancer is and how it might respond to certain treatments.
The Inclusion of Biomarkers in Staging
The eighth edition of the TNM staging system integrates biomarkers into the staging process. This is a significant advancement from previous editions, which focused solely on anatomic factors. By including biomarkers, the staging system provides a more detailed picture of the cancer, helping to predict outcomes and tailor treatment plans. This integration marks a step towards more personalized and precise cancer care.
How Biomarkers Influence Treatment
Biomarkers play a crucial role in determining the best treatment options for breast cancer patients. For instance, cancers that are HER2-positive can be treated with targeted therapies like trastuzumab. Similarly, ER-positive cancers may respond well to hormone therapies. By understanding a tumor's biomarker profile, doctors can choose treatments that are more likely to be effective, improving the chances of a successful outcome.
FAQs
What are biomarkers?
They are biological molecules indicating disease presence.
Why include biomarkers in staging?
They provide a detailed cancer profile and guide treatment.
How do HER2-positive cancers benefit?
They can be treated with targeted therapies like trastuzumab.
Are biomarkers used in all cancers?
Not always, but they are increasingly common in breast cancer.
Key Takeaways
Biomarkers are revolutionizing breast cancer diagnosis and treatment by enabling more personalized care.
Additional References
- Henry NL, Somerfield MR, Dayao Z, et al. Biomarkers for Systemic Therapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer: ASCO Guideline Update. J Clin Oncol 2022.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.