what does e-cadherin positive mean in breast cancer

Release time ：Dec-20,2024

E-cadherin is a cell adhesion molecule that plays a crucial role in maintaining cell-cell junctions and the structural integrity of tissues. In the context of breast cancer, E-cadherin positivity typically signifies that the cancer cells express this adhesion molecule, potentially linking to the tumor's invasive and metastatic potential.

E-cadherin-positive breast cancer may exhibit the following traits:

1. Weakened cell-cell junctions: As E-cadherin is pivotal for cell-cell junctions, its presence may suggest that the bonds between cancer cells are less robust, facilitating detachment from the primary tumor and invasion into surrounding tissues.

2. Elevated metastatic risk: Breast cancer cells that are E-cadherin-positive might be more prone to disseminate to other sites via the bloodstream or lymphatic system, leading to distant metastases.

3. Challenging treatment: E-cadherin-positive breast cancer could be less responsive to certain therapeutic modalities, such as chemotherapy and radiation, complicating treatment efforts.

It is important to recognize that not all E-cadherin-positive breast cancers exhibit these traits, and the expression levels of E-cadherin, along with other biological features, can influence tumor behavior. Consequently, personalized treatment strategies should be tailored to the individual circumstances of patients with E-cadherin-positive breast cancer.

In conclusion, while E-cadherin positivity in breast cancer may correlate with increased invasiveness and metastatic risk, a comprehensive assessment that includes other factors is necessary for precise evaluation. Patients should vigilantly monitor their condition, engage in regular follow-ups and assessments to promptly adjust treatment plans. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle practices, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can enhance physical fitness and immune function, better equipping them to face the challenges of their disease.