HER2Positivität

HER2Positivität refers to a specific characteristic of certain types of cancer, most notably breast cancer. HER2 stands for Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2. It is a gene that produces a protein which plays a role in cell growth. In cancer cells, a mutation or an overabundance of the HER2 gene can lead to the production of too much HER2 protein. This overexpression, known as HER2 positivity, can cause cancer cells to grow and divide more rapidly than normal.

Detecting HER2 positivity is crucial for treatment planning. It is typically identified through laboratory tests performed on a sample of tumor tissue. These tests, such as immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), determine the level of HER2 protein or gene amplification. The results help oncologists classify the cancer and select the most effective therapeutic strategies.

For HER2-positive cancers, targeted therapies that specifically attack the HER2 protein are available and have significantly improved outcomes. These treatments work by blocking the HER2 protein's signals that promote cancer growth. Without identifying HER2 positivity, patients might not receive these highly effective and specifically designed treatments, potentially leading to less favorable prognoses. Therefore, HER2 testing is a standard and vital part of the diagnostic process for many cancers.