Bengaluru Doctors Reveal How 64-Year-Old Beat Aggressive Breast Cancer

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer – An Understanding

“Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a severe and rapid-progressing breast cancer,” explains Dr Monika. ‘Triple-negative’, since the cancer cells do not have three key receptors — estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 — which are typically targeted in most breast cancer treatments. The lack of them makes treating TNBC more difficult.”

“TNBC accounts for about 15 to 20 percent of breast cancer cases,” Dr Nitin adds. “It also grows and spreads more quickly than other types and has a higher risk of recurrence. Once the mainstay of treatment, chemotherapy has now given way to new advancements including immunotherapies that are proving more effective for patients.”

From Diagnosis to Recovery

Mary Vasanthi was diagnosed at 64 years of age with stage 3 triple-negative breast cancer that had spread to lymph nodes and also on her skin. “The diagnosis was confirmed by diagnostic imaging and biopsy as being an advanced and aggressive disease,” said Dr Pansari.

“Due to the complexity of her situation, we started a multi-pronged treatment with chemotherapy and immunotherapy with Pembrolizumab,” says Dr. Murthy. “After 8 cycles, the tumour was markedly shrunk down, and subsequent scans revealed near-complete resolution of cancer in the breast and lymph nodes.”

Mary subsequently underwent a right total mastectomy in addition to axillary lymph node dissection. “The pathology report post-surgical showed a complete pathological response, i.e. no residual cancer cells were available in the removed tissue,” adds Dr Pansari. “Getting such a response in an aggressive cancer like TNBC is very encouraging. The combination of immunotherapy and chemo is changing the therapy profile in complex cases.”

Prevention and Early Detection

TNBC cannot be prevented but regular screening and a healthy lifestyle are critical, doctors said. Recommended measures include:
Regularly examining your breast.
Annual clinical breast check-ups.
Timely mammograms and early screening.
Eating a good balanced diet and stay active.
Seeking early medical consultation for unusual breast changes.

Mary’s case reminds us all that early diagnosis, advanced therapy and whole-person care can have a dramatic influence on the course of patients’ illness even in the most challenging cancer.

Disclaimer: This article aims only to inform and does not replace expert medical advice. Never consult anyone without healthcare for care if you have any medical issue.