What characterizes triple-negative breast cancer?

Triple-negative breast cancer is defined by the absence of three key receptors that are often targeted in other forms of breast cancer treatment: the estrogen receptor, the progesterone receptor, and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). This lack of these receptors is why it is termed "triple-negative." As a result, standard hormonal therapies and HER2-targeted treatments do not work for this type, making it a distinct and challenging subtype of breast cancer.

The absence of these receptors limits treatment options and generally leads to a more aggressive behavior compared to hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, hence emphasizing the unique characteristics of triple-negative breast cancer. The other options do not correctly describe this cancer type because they either misrepresent the receptor status, imply gender restriction, or inaccurately address the aggressiveness of the cancer.