Breast
cancers can be sorted into groups based on hormone receptor
types. Hormone receptors are proteins that dock to hormones
and then initiate genetic activities such as gene transcription
and cell growth
Common
receptor categories include estrogen receptors, progesterone
receptor and Her2Nu receptor. A given breast cancer may
be positive or negative for these hormone receptors, or
they may be present in
various degrees.
Tamoxifen
is the most commonlyused drug in hormone therapy. It is
usually given for several years. Common side effects include
hot flashes, irregular menstrual periods, and vaginal discharge.
Less common side effects are depression, loss of appetite,
eye problems, headache, and weight problems.