Clinical characteristics of triple-negative breast cancer: experience in an Asian developing country.

INTRODUCTION

Triple negative (TN) breast cancers are defined by a lack of expression of oestrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. They tend to have a higher grade, with a poorer outcome compared to non-TN breast cancers.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine the incidence of TN breast cancer in an Asian country consisting of Malays, Chinese and Indians, and to determine the factors associated with this type of breast cancer.

RESULTS

The incidence of TN breast cancer in the University Malaya Medical Center is 17.6%. There is no significant difference amongst the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In bivariate analysis, TN breast cancer was significantly associated with younger age and Grade 3. However, in multivariate analysis using logistic regression, TN breast cancer was only associated with Grade 3.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of TN breast cancer in our study is similar to other studies, and associated with a higher grade.