Hormone Receptor Status
Also known as: Oestrogen receptors; Progesterone receptors
Formal name: Oestrogen and Progesterone receptor status
Related tests: Her-2/neu; Tumour markers
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
Oestrogen receptors and progesterone receptors are specialised proteins found within certain cells throughout the body. These receptors bind to oestrogen and progesterone, female hormones that circulate in the blood, and promote new cell growth and division.
Many breast cancer tumours have receptors for oestrogen and/or progesterone, often in large numbers. These tumours are said to be hormone-dependent, and oestrogen and/or progesterone feed their growth. Breast cancer tissue can be tested to see if it is positive for these receptors.
Many breast cancer tumours have receptors for oestrogen and/or progesterone, often in large numbers. These tumours are said to be hormone-dependent, and oestrogen and/or progesterone feed their growth. Breast cancer tissue can be tested to see if it is positive for these receptors.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A sample of breast cancer tissue is obtained (such as by doing a fine needle aspiration, needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy) or a tumour removed surgically during a lumpectomy or mastectomy is tested.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
If you don't know what a word or a medical term means, try the
Mondofacto Online Medical Dictionary
.
