Award-winning physician Dr. Kenneth D. Nahum practices hematology and oncology at Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) in New Jersey. Working in medicine for more than 30 years, Dr. Kenneth D. Nahum has treated, managed, and studied dozens of conditions, including HER2 breast cancer.
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, also known as HER2, is a growth-promoting protein created by the HER2 gene. Normally, HER2 proteins rest on breast cells and act as receptors. They help healthy breast cells divide, grow, and repair.
However, the HER2 gene sometimes malfunctions and makes too many copies of itself. As a result, too many HER2 proteins are created, and the breast cells divide and grow uncontrollably.
The presence of HER2 proteins promotes the rapid growth and spread of breast cancer. Because of this, HER2 protein levels are usually tested.
When the test comes up with a result of 0 to 1+, the cancer is said to be HER2-negative. These cancers will not respond to treatments that specifically target HER2 genes and proteins. A rating of 3+ means the cancer is HER2-positive and can be treated with drugs that target this particular protein.
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