CASE SELECTION 3: Long-Term Survival with Advanced Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

“Case Selection” is a new format designed to highlight inspiring patient cases focused on challenging situations such as multiple recurrences, extensive metastases, rare subtypes, no longer response to standard treatments. Each case is derived exclusively from peer-reviewed medical journal case reports, rewritten by Patient Savvy in clear, easy-to-understand language without altering any critical information.

This collection highlights real stories of triple-negative breast cancer patients who achieved long-term survival through multiple lines of treatment—options often not fully detailed in standard guidelines (You can download FREE HERE). Their experiences show the power of self-advocacy and the importance of speaking with your doctor about personalized treatment paths.

Kati’s 6+ years with stage 4 TNBC

Invasive ductal carcinoma of the right breast, diagnosed at age 60 with lymph node involvement; recurrence in 2012 with metastases to bone and lymph nodes
Mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, multiple systemic chemotherapy regimens, and bone-strengthening therapy

In June 2011, a 60-year-old woman, who had worked as a recruiter and had a history of type 2 diabetes, noticed nodules in her right breast. She underwent a mammogram, followed by a PET/CT scan, which confirmed a right breast mass with possible lymph node involvement. A biopsy revealed triple-negative invasive ductal carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that does not express hormone receptors or HER2. She underwent a right modified radical mastectomy later that month. Pathology confirmed that 19 lymph nodes were positive for metastatic disease. She proceeded with six cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy, completing treatment in November 2011, followed by radiation therapy, which she completed in January 2012. A PET/CT scan in February 2012 showed no signs of residual cancer.

Just months later, in June 2012, she discovered an enlarged left supraclavicular lymph node. A biopsy confirmed that her cancer had returned and metastasized to her bone and lymph nodes. Facing recurrent metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), she started palliative chemoradiation but discontinued it shortly after. 

Seeking another opinion, she opted for systemic chemotherapy, receiving seven different regimens between July 2012 and June 2014. To help prevent complications from bone metastases, she also received monthly zoledronic acid and supportive medications to boost her immune system. Over time, her treatment was adjusted based on tolerance and response. A PET/CT scan in July 2013 revealed no metabolic activity in her previously affected bone lesion, indicating a strong response to treatment. After completing chemotherapy in June 2014, follow-up scans showed no evidence of metastatic disease.

Now 68 years old, she remains in remission and has not needed chemotherapy since 2014. While she discontinued zoledronic acid in 2015 due to mild osteonecrosis of the jaw, routine scans continue to show no signs of recurrence. Her journey demonstrates the importance of persistence, innovative treatment approaches, and expert medical care in overcoming metastatic TNBC. Today, she enjoys a good quality of life, inspiring others with her incredible resilience.

Source: Chue, B. M. F., & La Course, B. D. (2019). Can we cure stage IV triple-negative breast carcinoma?: Another case report of long-term survival (7 years). Medicine, 98(38), e17251.

Over 15 years with metastatic TNBC thanks to chemotherapy

High-grade invasive ductal carcinoma (2001), later recurrent triple-negative breast cancer (2003) with metastases
Initial surgery without adjuvant therapy; later chemotherapy, and bone-protecting agents led to remission

In March 2001, a 56-year-old homemaker discovered a nodule in her left breast. With a family history of prostate and uterine cancer, she underwent a biopsy in April 2001, which confirmed high-grade infiltrating ductal carcinoma. The tumor tested positive for estrogen receptor (ER) but negative for progesterone receptor (PR) and HER2 overexpression. She underwent a lumpectomy and lymph node dissection, which confirmed no lymphatic spread. However, she declined chemotherapy and radiation.

Two years later, in 2003, she noticed another mass in her left breast. A biopsy confirmed a recurrence, leading her to undergo bilateral mastectomies. This time, the cancer had evolved into a triple-negative subtype. Again, she declined additional treatment. Unfortunately, by September 2003, the disease had metastasized to her lungs, liver, bones, and lymph nodes.

Realizing the severity, she opted for chemotherapy, receiving multiple regimens alongside bone-protecting medication. Her treatment led to significant tumor shrinkage and normalization of cancer markers. By 2005, scans showed no evidence of disease. In mid-2005, minor skin recurrences were treated with an immune-stimulating cream, resolving by early 2006. Over the following years, her treatment was gradually reduced.

Now 73, she remains cancer-free for over 15 years, defying the odds of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. Her journey highlights the importance of persistence, evolving treatments, and personalized care.

Source: Chue, B. M. F., & La Course, B. D. (2019). Case report of long-term survival with metastatic triple-negative breast carcinoma: Treatment possibilities for metastatic disease. Medicine, 98(16), e15302..

A journey from TNBC at age 24 to cancer-free

Invasive ductal carcinoma, TNBC, stage III, discovered at age 24
Chemotherapy (22 of 28 rounds), mastectomy with 34 lymph nodes removed, 33 rounds of radiation, and subsequent preventive mastectomy with reconstruction

A 24-year-old patient noticed a mass in her left breast during the summer of 2017 but did not initially suspect cancer. Because her gynecologist also presumed it might be a fibroid, they arranged additional tests at MD Anderson’s Undiagnosed Breast Clinic. A mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy soon revealed invasive ductal carcinoma. Surprisingly, the cancer was triple-negative, meaning it lacked specific genetic markers for targeted therapy, and it had already reached stage III.

Given its aggressive nature, chemotherapy became the first line of defense. The patient started treatment on September 21, 2017, completing 22 of the prescribed 28 rounds before scans suggested the tumor was growing. Under the guidance of Dr. David Ramirez, surgery became the next essential step. On February 8, 2018, she underwent a complete mastectomy on the left side and removal of 34 lymph nodes. Fortunately, pathology reports showed 95% of the tumor was actually dead tissue; what appeared as growth on scans turned out to be swelling and scar tissue, indicating the chemotherapy had been effective after all.

With that encouraging news, 33 rounds of radiation therapy started in March 2018 under Dr. Eric Strom. On May 8, 2018, she rang the bell marking the end of radiation and learned she had no evidence of disease since surgery. However, triple-negative breast cancer carries a higher risk of recurrence, so she opted for preventive surgery in November to remove the other breast. Dr. Sarah DeSnyder and Dr. Summer Hanson performed a double mastectomy and subsequent breast reconstruction.

Though there was no genetic component to her cancer, the patient emphasizes the importance of regular self-exams and vigilance for those under 40. Early detection can make all the difference, especially when mammograms are not routinely recommended at younger ages. Her story highlights not only the significance of paying attention to any unusual changes, but also the hope and resilience that can come from timely medical intervention and unwavering determination.

Source:  MD Anderson Cancer Center (Published in January 2019)

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If you have any questions, or any stories to share with us, please feel free to leave a comment in the section below.

8 thoughts on “CASE SELECTION 3: Long-Term Survival with Advanced Triple-Negative Breast Cancer”

  1. Gayle Nguyen

    I’m a fourteen year survivor of triple negative breast cancer, diagnosed at age 52. Stage 2, high grade. I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy, thirty-three rounds of radiation and a mastectomy without reconstruction. Three years later I underwent an elective mastectomy on the other non affected breast.

    Reply
  2. Tracy Worrell

    My name is Tracy and I was diagnosed stage four triple negative breast cancer in 2020 and I have been any A.D. since July 2021!!! I am a thriver and a survivor. I am a mother of seven kids of which four are adopted older from China and Deaf. I’m a sign language interpreter and my husband is Deaf.. I’m grateful to be here for my husband and my children, and I appreciate every moment and live my life to the fullest! It is not an easy journey for anyone and it is not been easiest of journeys for me either, but I’m pushing to enjoy what I can, when I can. These stories are definitely inspiring.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Dear Tracy, thank you so much for sharing your story. A cancer journey is incredibly challenging, no matter how many new treatments or encouraging words we hear along the way. Your spirit and motto are truly inspiring to so many. Believe us, there are many many long-term survivors out there, and we’ll do our best to bring them to you and other warriors. Wish you and your family a great day!

      Reply
  3. Dora

    I was diagnosed April of 2021 with TNBC IDC stage 1B. Underwent 4 rounds of TC And 12 rounds of Taxol and and one other chemo med. Immunotherapy, lumpectomy and removal of two lymph nodes with clear margins and no cancer in lymphnodes. 20 rounds of rads and 8 months of oral chemo. I am now NED. And continue with my follow up MRI’s and mammograms/bloodowork. Last chemo was 11/7/2021.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Thank you for sharing your inspiring story. We’re so glad to hear you’re NED now. None of us ever want to hear the word ‘cancer’ in our lives, but we believe, many come to appreciate life even more after going through it. Wishing you all the best in this next chapter of your journey.

      Reply
  4. Janice Cowden

    It has been 9 years since my stage IV TNBC diagnosis in 2016, a recurrence from stage 1 tnbc in 2011. I had a complete response to my first line of treatment, AC chemo, and have remained NED and on no systemic treatment since November 2016. Or as I like to say, “dancing with NED.” I am a retired nurse whose passion for science and research led me to seek training as a patient advocate. I’ve actively served as a peer support and research patient advocate for over 8 years, collaborating with basic, translational and clinical researchers, reviewing research grants, serving MBC-specific organizations in various capacities, attending multiple scientific breast cancer conferences annually, and using this unexpected gift of time to educate the public, while providing support and hope for others diagnosed with mTNBC. I am inspired by those who continue to show up every day for others, despite dealing with symptoms of disease and side effects from treatment. I remember and honor the legacies of so many friends I’ve lost over the years. They are my “why” for continuing to advocate for better outcomes for everyone with MBC.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Your story is truly inspiring. Thank you for being there for others—it makes such a meaningful, huge impact. We’ve met many many patients who refused treatment after diagnosis. Of course, there’s no judgment, as we must respect each individual’s choice. But it’s extremely frustrating and disheartening when those decisions are shaped by non-scientific narratives, leaving patients without reliable stories or guidance to lean on. That’s why we feel it’s so important to share more inspiring stories like yours, so others can find strength and hope in them.

      Reply

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