Explore metastatic breast cancer: understand its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management strategies for informed awareness and care.
Metastatic breast cancer, also known as stage IV breast cancer, is the most advanced form of breast cancer. It occurs when cancer cells spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body, such as the bones, brain, liver, or lungs. Despite spreading to other areas, it is still considered breast cancer and treated accordingly.
Is There a Difference Between Metastatic Breast Cancer and Stage 4 Breast Cancer?
No, both terms refer to the same condition. Stage 4 breast cancer is synonymous with metastatic breast cancer, indicating that the cancer has spread to distant parts of the body.
When Do People Get a Metastatic Breast Cancer Diagnosis?
- Approximately 6% of women and 9% of men are diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the time of their initial diagnosis.
- More commonly, metastatic breast cancer is diagnosed after initial treatment, when cancer returns and spreads to other parts of the body, sometimes years later.
Who is at Risk for Metastatic Breast Cancer?
The risk of developing metastatic breast cancer depends on several factors:
- Characteristics of the cancer cells.
- Stage of cancer at initial diagnosis.
- Types of treatments received.
How Common is Metastatic Breast Cancer?
In the United States, about 170,000 people are living with metastatic breast cancer. Women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer have a lower likelihood of developing metastatic breast cancer.
Causes and Symptoms
Metastatic breast cancer can occur due to:
- Cancer cells invading lymph nodes and blood vessels, traveling to other body parts via lymphatic or blood systems.
- Residual cancer cells remaining dormant after treatment and later becoming active.
- Cancer spreading to other parts of the body before initial diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms vary depending on where the cancer has spread:
Bone Metastasis Symptoms:
- Bone pain.
- Increased susceptibility to fractures.
- Swelling.
Brain Metastasis Symptoms:
- Persistent headaches or pressure in the head.
- Visual disturbances.
- Seizures.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Behavioral or personality changes.
Liver Metastasis Symptoms:
- Jaundice.
- Itchy skin or rash.
- Abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
Lung Metastasis Symptoms:
- Persistent cough.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
Other General Symptoms:
- Fatigue.
- Poor appetite.
- Unexplained weight loss.
Diagnosis and Tests
To diagnose metastatic breast cancer, healthcare providers may recommend:
- Complete blood count and comprehensive metabolic panel.
- Imaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, bone scans, and PET scans.
- Bronchoscopy to examine the lungs if there are respiratory concerns.
- Biopsy to analyze tissue from suspicious areas.
- Fluid taps (e.g., pleural or spinal taps) to examine fluid from affected areas.
Management and Treatment
While metastatic breast cancer is not curable, various treatments can help manage the disease:
- Systemic therapies, including chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy.
- Radiation therapy to alleviate symptoms in specific areas.
- Supportive care to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.
It's essential for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances.