Which treatment might be indicated for a patient with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer?

Hormonal therapy, such as aromatase inhibitors, is a cornerstone of treatment for patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. This type of cancer grows in response to estrogen and/or progesterone, making hormone receptor status a critical factor in determining the most effective treatment approach.

Aromatase inhibitors work by decreasing the amount of estrogen produced in the body, thus limiting the hormone's stimulating effects on the cancer cells. This approach not only helps in shrinking the tumors but also in preventing recurrence in patients who have undergone initial treatment. Hormonal therapy is often used in various stages of breast cancer treatment, including adjuvant therapy for early-stage disease and as a primary treatment for advanced disease.

While chemotherapy and targeted therapies may also be employed in specific circumstances—particularly for patients with more aggressive forms of cancer—hormonal therapy remains the primary focus for those who present with hormone receptor-positive tumors due to its effectiveness and reduced side effects compared to chemotherapy. Surgery can be part of the treatment plan, but it is not sufficient as a standalone treatment for these specific cancer characteristics. Therefore, hormonal therapy is the most appropriate and targeted treatment for patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.