Metastatic Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of metastatic breast cancer?

The symptoms of metastatic breast cancer depend on the location of the metastases and the extent of the disease. Some common symptoms of metastatic breast cancer include:

1. Pain: Metastatic breast cancer can cause pain in the bones, joints, or other parts of the body. This pain can be constant or intermittent and may worsen over time.
2. Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits or neck can be a sign of metastatic breast cancer. This can be caused by cancer cells spreading through the lymphatic system.
3. Weight loss: Weight loss can be a sign of metastatic breast cancer, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or difficulty swallowing.
4. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of metastatic breast cancer, which can be caused by anemia, chemotherapy, or other factors.
5. Coughing or shortness of breath: Metastases in the lungs can cause coughing or shortness of breath, which can be a sign of advanced disease.
6. Abdominal pain: Metastases in the liver or other abdominal organs can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or jaundice.
7. Headaches: Metastases in the brain can cause headaches, seizures, or changes in mental status.
8. Double vision or blurry vision: Metastases in the eyes or brain can cause double vision or blurry vision.
9. Seizures: Metastases in the brain can cause seizures, which can be a sign of advanced disease.
10. Changes in mental status: Metastases in the brain can also cause changes in mental status, such as confusion, memory loss, or personality changes.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and only a doctor can determine if they are related to metastatic breast cancer. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What are the causes of metastatic breast cancer?

Metastatic breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain. The causes of metastatic breast cancer are not fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the disease.

Some of the known risk factors for developing metastatic breast cancer include:

1. Family history: A family history of breast cancer, particularly if multiple family members have been diagnosed with the disease.
2. Genetic mutations: Mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are known to increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
3. Hormone exposure: Exposure to estrogen and progesterone hormones, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood, can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
4. Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.
5. Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
6. Early age at menarche: Starting menstruation at a young age can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
7. Late age at first birth: Having children later in life may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
8. History of radiation therapy: Previous radiation therapy to the chest can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
9. Dense breast tissue: Women with dense breast tissue may be at higher risk for developing breast cancer.
10. History of prior breast biopsies: Women who have had prior biopsies may be at higher risk for developing breast cancer.

It’s important to note that not all women with these risk factors will develop metastatic breast cancer, and many women who do not have any known risk factors may still develop the disease. If you are concerned about your risk for metastatic breast cancer, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your individual risks and take steps to reduce your risk through a healthy lifestyle and regular screening mammograms.

How is the diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer made?

The diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. Here are the steps involved in making a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer:

1. Medical history: A detailed medical history is taken to understand the patient’s symptoms, risk factors, and medical history.
2. Physical examination: A thorough physical examination is performed to look for signs of metastatic disease, such as swollen lymph nodes, skin changes, or other physical findings.
3. Imaging studies: Imaging studies such as mammography, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans are used to visualize the breast and surrounding tissues and to detect any abnormalities.
4. Biopsy: A biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed from the breast or from a suspected metastatic site for microscopic examination.
5. Pathology report: The biopsy sample is examined under a microscope by a pathologist, who looks for cancer cells and determines the type and stage of the cancer.
6. Laboratory tests: Laboratory tests such as blood tests, liver function tests, and bone scans may be ordered to help stage the cancer and monitor treatment response.
7. Bone scan: A bone scan is a test that uses small amounts of radioactive material to help detect abnormalities in the bones.
8. CT or MRI scans: CT or MRI scans may be used to evaluate the liver, lungs, brain, or other organs for metastatic disease.

The diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer is typically confirmed when:

• Cancer cells are found in the biopsy specimen
• Imaging studies show evidence of distant metastases
• Laboratory tests indicate elevated levels of tumor markers (e.g., CA 15-3 or CEA)
• Bone scan shows uptake of radioactive material in areas consistent with metastases

Once a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer is made, the next steps involve staging the disease and developing a treatment plan.

What is the treatment for metastatic breast cancer?

The treatment for metastatic breast cancer depends on various factors, including the type of breast cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health. The goal of treatment is to control the growth of the cancer, relieve symptoms, and improve the patient’s quality of life. Here are some common treatments for metastatic breast cancer:

1. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is a common treatment for metastatic breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It works by blocking or reducing the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones, which can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.
2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given orally or intravenously, and it can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
3. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that targets specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and progression of breast cancer cells.
4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer cells.
5. Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove tumors or to relieve symptoms caused by metastases.
6. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy is a type of treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
7. Palliative care: Palliative care is a type of care that focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life.

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including:

• The type and stage of the breast cancer
• The patient’s overall health
• The patient’s menopausal status
• The presence or absence of hormone receptors (estrogen receptor positive or negative)
• The presence or absence of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) receptors

It’s important to note that treatment for metastatic breast cancer is typically ongoing, and patients may receive multiple treatments over time. Patients should work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their individual needs and goals.