Immunohistochemistry HER2 ERBB2 Breast Test
Understanding HER2 ERBB2 Breast Cancer Testing
The Immunohistochemistry HER2 ERBB2 Breast Test represents a cornerstone in modern breast cancer diagnostics, providing critical information that directly influences treatment decisions and patient outcomes. This specialized laboratory analysis detects the presence and quantity of HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) proteins in breast cancer tissue samples.
What is HER2 and Why It Matters
HER2 is a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells. When breast cancer cells have too many HER2 receptors, the cancer is classified as HER2-positive. This specific type of breast cancer tends to grow and spread more aggressively than HER2-negative cancers. However, the identification of HER2-positive status opens the door to highly effective targeted therapies specifically designed to block HER2 receptors.
What the Test Measures and Detects
This advanced immunohistochemistry test specifically measures:
- HER2 protein overexpression levels in breast tissue
- Intensity and distribution of HER2 staining patterns
- Percentage of cancer cells showing HER2 positivity
- Membrane staining completeness and intensity
The test utilizes specialized antibodies that bind to HER2 proteins, creating visible staining patterns that pathologists can evaluate under a microscope. Results are typically scored on a scale from 0 to 3+, with scores of 3+ indicating HER2-positive status that qualifies patients for targeted therapy.
Who Should Consider This Test
Clinical Indications and Symptoms
This test is recommended for patients who:
- Have been newly diagnosed with invasive breast cancer
- Experience rapid tumor growth or aggressive disease progression
- Show resistance to conventional chemotherapy treatments
- Have recurrent breast cancer requiring updated biomarker assessment
- Present with large tumor size or lymph node involvement
- Have family history of aggressive breast cancer types
Benefits of HER2 ERBB2 Testing
Undergoing HER2 testing provides numerous clinical advantages:
- Personalized Treatment Planning: Determines eligibility for targeted therapies like trastuzumab (Herceptin), pertuzumab, and ado-trastuzumab emtansine
- Improved Survival Rates: HER2-targeted therapies have significantly improved outcomes for HER2-positive breast cancer patients
- Reduced Treatment Side Effects: Avoids unnecessary chemotherapy in patients who won’t benefit from it
- Accurate Prognostic Information: Provides valuable insights into disease aggressiveness and likely progression
- Treatment Monitoring: Helps assess response to therapy and guide treatment adjustments
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpretation Guidelines
Your HER2 test results will fall into one of these categories:
Score 0 (Negative)
No staining is observed, or membrane staining is incomplete and faint. This indicates HER2-negative status, and targeted HER2 therapy is not recommended.
Score 1+ (Negative)
Faint, incomplete membrane staining in more than 10% of tumor cells. Considered HER2-negative, and targeted therapy is typically not indicated.
Score 2+ (Equivocal)
Weak to moderate complete membrane staining in more than 10% of tumor cells. This borderline result requires additional testing with FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) for definitive classification.
Score 3+ (Positive)
Strong complete membrane staining in more than 10% of tumor cells. This confirms HER2-positive status and qualifies the patient for targeted HER2 therapy.
Test Pricing and Availability
| Test Description | Regular Price | Discount Price |
|---|---|---|
| Immunohistochemistry HER2 ERBB2 Breast Test | $52 USD | $46 USD |
Turnaround Time
- Standard Tissue Biopsy: 5 days
- Large Complex Tissue: 7 days
- Sample Acceptance: Daily by 6 PM
Sample Requirements
Submit tumor tissue in 10% formal-saline OR formalin fixed paraffin embedded block. Ship at room temperature. Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, Site of biopsy and Clinical history.
Nationwide Testing Availability
We have diagnostic centers conveniently located across the United States, serving patients in all major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, Austin, Jacksonville, Fort Worth, Columbus, Charlotte, San Francisco, Indianapolis, Seattle, Denver, Washington DC, Boston, El Paso, Nashville, Detroit, Oklahoma City, Portland, Las Vegas, Memphis, Louisville, Baltimore, and Milwaukee.
Take Control of Your Breast Cancer Journey
Accurate HER2 status determination is crucial for effective breast cancer management. Our advanced immunohistochemistry testing provides reliable results that empower you and your healthcare team to make informed treatment decisions. Don’t leave your treatment planning to chance – get the precise biomarker information you need for optimal care.
Ready to schedule your HER2 ERBB2 Breast Test? Contact our dedicated patient care team today at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Our experienced staff will guide you through the testing process and ensure you receive your results promptly.
Take the first step toward personalized breast cancer treatment – call now to schedule your comprehensive HER2 assessment and unlock targeted therapy options that could significantly improve your treatment outcomes.
