Tripple Negative Breast Cancer in Younger Population: Clinical Features and Prognostic Factors

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive, basal-like type that does not express ER, PR, or HER2, leading to a poor outlook and elevated recurrence rates, particularly in women younger than 40. In Bangladesh, the primary treatment for invasive ductal carcinoma involves surgery and chemotherapy. This research explores clinical characteristics and prognostic indicators in younger TNBC patients to inform treatment decisions. Methods & Materials: A retrospective study conducted at Shikder Women's Medical College Hospital (July 2024-Dec 2025) involved women aged ≤40 years diagnosed with TNBC. Demographic data, tumor characteristics, molecular indicators, treatment details, and one-year relapse rates were examined using SPSS 26. Tumors were staged according to AJCC 8th edition, high Ki-67 >40%, using Chi-square for associations (p<0.05). Approval for ethical considerations was secured. Results: In 52 younger TNBC patients, the majority presented with T2, Grade III invasive ductal tumors, often accompanied by lymph node involvement and noticeable lumps. Elevated Ki67 and p53 positivity were prevalent, with 25% showing positive results for BRCA1. The treatment encompassed surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, but did not involve hormonal or HER2 therapies. Early relapse was associated with greater tumor size, positive nodal involvement, high grade, and elevated Ki67, but not with BRCA1 status. Conclusion: Younger patients with TNBC generally present with high-grade, invasive tumors that exhibit aggressive characteristics. Management involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, with early recurrence associated with significant tumor size, nodal involvement, high grade, and elevated Ki67, highlighting the necessity for attentive treatment.