Molecular testing of HER2/neu of patients with breast cancer as a criterium for selection of Herceptin therapy- is our approach optimal?

Abstract

The results of molecular and immunohistochemical testing of HER2/neu status in 2 145 patients with breast cancer are presented. Overexpresion of HER2/neu protein was detected in 591 (27,6%) cases, while 1554 (72,4%) cases were immunohistochemically (IHC) negative.

Discordant phenotype IHC negative/amplification positive was found in 16 patients (1,03%). This group of patients could benefit of Herceptin therapy.

Keywords

• breast cancer
• HER2/neu testing
• Herceptin therapy
• HER2/neu amplification
• HER2/neu immunohistochmeistry