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Research on progesterone-positive breast cancer?

Page last modified on: July 1, 2009
Question from Deirdre: Is there ongoing research as to exactly what PR+ means to breast cancer? We all know that ER+ means that the lesion is fed by estrogen, but when I look up PR+ it states that the lesion is affected by progesterone but not that it feeds the cancer. Can you explain where the research is on progesterone and breast cancer? Thanks!
Answer —Nicholas Robert, M.D.: The progesterone receptor, we think, is positive when there is an impact on the functioning estrogen receptor. In patients where both receptors are positive, we think that hormonal/endocrine therapy will be more effective. There is an uncommon subset of tumors where the estrogen receptor is negative and the progesterone receptor is positive. We think in that group there are still some benefits to using hormonal treatments, although the benefit is less.

On Wednesday, June 24, 2009, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Updates from the ASCO Annual Meeting. Nick Robert, M.D. and Beth Baughman Dupree, M.D., F.A.C.S. answered your questions about the newest findings on risk, screening, treatment, and more.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Nicholas Robert, M.D.Nicholas Robert, M.D. is a co-chair of the Breast Committee of the U.S. Oncology Research Network and also chairs the Cancer Committee and Research Committee of the Inova Fairfax Hospital's Cancer Center. 

Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a general surgeon. Her clinical practice is located at Holy Redeemer Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center.

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