Estrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor Tests Test

ER/PR tests check if your breast cancer cells have receptors for the hormones estrogen or progesterone. The results help guide your treatment.

What this test measures

These tests measure whether breast cancer cells have estrogen receptors (ER) and/or progesterone receptors (PR). The results show if the cancer is hormone receptor-positive or negative.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

A positive result means at least 1% of cells have receptors, and the cancer may be using estrogen or progesterone to grow. Higher receptor levels may mean certain medicines work better.

Lower-than-normal results

A negative result means less than 1% of cells have receptors, so hormone-blocking medicines will not be effective.

Frequently asked questions

What are ER/PR tests?

They are tests on breast cancer tissue to see if the cancer cells have receptors for estrogen or progesterone.

Why are ER/PR tests done?

The results help guide breast cancer treatment by showing if hormone therapy might work.

What does hormone receptor-positive mean?

It means at least 1% of the cancer cells have estrogen or progesterone receptors, and the cancer may use these hormones to grow.

What does hormone receptor-negative mean?

It means less than 1% of cells have receptors, so hormone therapy will not be effective.

Can men get breast cancer and have these tests?

Yes, breast cancer can affect both women and men, and ER/PR tests are used for both.

Sources

MedlinePlus: Estrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor Tests — NIH MedlinePlus

Last updated July 7, 2026. Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.