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estrogen and progesterone receptor (er/pr) tests

estrogen and progesterone receptor (er/pr) tests identify whether these hormones affect the way that breast cancer grows. the results of these tests help doctors decide whether to use hormone therapy to help stop the cancer from growing or to lower the risk of the cancer coming back (recurrence).

the hormones estrogen and progesterone attach to certain receptors on the breast cells to stimulate the growth of normal breast cells and some breast cancers.

breast cancer cells that lack these receptors (er-negative and pr-negative cancers) are much less likely to respond to treatment with such medicines as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. er/pr-positive tumours have these receptors and are more likely to respond to treatment with tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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