What does "immunophenotype" mean with respect to breast cancer?

Diseases:  
Diseases:  
Done
Emailz
1
Expert Answers

JoseEstebanMDPhD (Physician - Pathology (Verified) ) - 07 / 17 / 2012

Immunophenotype refers to the immunological and genetic characteristics of a cell or organism. In breast cancer it is used to define the expression of some or proteins that may be present in the tumor cells and they have been shown to be highly relevant as prognostic and/or predictive markers of the tumors. We routinely study with immunohistochemical techniques the expression of hormonal receptors, Her 2 neu, Ki67 and several other proteins/antigens and provide that information together with the histologic features of the tumor. The immunophenotype allows a further classification (basal, luminal, triple negative etc types) beyond the one that is based exclusively on morphology that helps to predict the behavior of the tumor and to select a more appropriate treatment.
Join Now to ask a follow-up question or share your experience!
We'll help guide and support you through treatments.
Similar Questions
What does it mean if my cancer has metastasized?
What does it mean when a cancer is "locally advanced"?
What does it mean if a prostate cancer is castrate resistant?
What does it mean if micrometastases are found in the lymph nodes for breast cancer? Is this different than regular cancer cells?
What is the significance of the latest research for trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) and what does this mean for breast cancer patients?
Note: All content on this site is informational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with questions regarding your health.
Note: Usernames have been made anonymous and profile images are not shown to protect the privacy of our members.
Flag Content
Please explain why you are flagging this content. Thank you.
Cancel
Thank you for flagging this content. We will look into it right away.
Ok
Give a 'Thank you' to
Cancel
Close
Talk About Health
Add Answer

Close
1) Question:
2) Background Info (optional): What context or background information is relevant to this request?
Notes:
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
Newsletters
Close
Subscribe to our free updates for the latest news, best answers and featured experts!
Your Email:
Q&A Workshop Announcements
(Featured experts, answers, tips, & latest news.)
Q&A Workshop Summaries
(Answer summaries from our expert Q&A workshops.)
Best of TalkAboutHealth (weekly)
(The week's best answers, news & support.)
TalkAboutHealth Benefits
(Custom health, wellness & medical promotions from our partners including clinical trials, market research opportunities, & new programs.)

Partners become a partner

© Copyright 2013 - Talk About Health - Privacy Policy | Terms of Service