Final answer:
Lapatinib in combination with capecitabine is a treatment option for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer as it inhibits autophosphorylation, signaling molecule binding, and dimerization, reducing tumor growth. Treatment is personalized, and other factors influence the choice of therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a 37-year-old female with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, the oncology treatment that could be recommended is Tykerb (lapatinib) in combination with Xeloda (capecitabine). Lapatinib is a drug that targets the HER2 receptor tyrosine kinase. By inhibiting autophosphorylation of this receptor, which is permanently activated in about 30 percent of HER2-positive breast cancers, lapatinib effectively reduces tumor growth.
Beyond just inhibiting autophosphorylation, lapatinib also prevents signaling molecule binding and dimerization. These processes are crucial for activating the downstream signaling pathways that lead to cell division and tumor growth. By halting these steps, the growth of the cancer is further impeded.
It is important to note that the treatment regimen for breast cancer is highly personalized and based on various factors. Thus, while lapatinib in combination with Xeloda (capecitabine) is a potential treatment option for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, oncologists may also consider other factors when recommending a specific treatment strategy.