Understanding Metastatic Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Tests, and Results

When breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it is called metastatic breast cancer. The most common places for breast cancer to spread are the bones, lungs, liver, and brain. If you have had breast cancer before, it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of metastatic breast cancer so you can alert your doctor if you experience any of them.

Symptoms of Metastatic Breast Cancer

The symptoms of metastatic breast cancer depend on where the cancer has spread. Some common symptoms include:

Bone Metastases

Pain, especially in the back or hips
Bone fractures or breaks
High calcium levels in the blood
Numbness or weakness in an arm or leg

Lung Metastases

Shortness of breath
Fatigue

Liver Metastases

Abdominal pain or swelling
Loss of appetite
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Fatigue
Confusion

Brain Metastases

Inability to feel or move part of the body
Persistent headaches
Seizures
Changes in vision or hearing
Drowsiness

It's important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but it's always best to have them checked out by your doctor, especially if you have a history of breast cancer.

Diagnosing Metastatic Breast Cancer

If your doctor suspects that your breast cancer has spread, they will order various tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the metastases. Some of the tests you may undergo include:

Imaging Tests

PET scan: A radioactive sugar is injected into your bloodstream. Cancer cells absorb the sugar more quickly, allowing them to be detected on the scan.
Bone scan: A radioactive tracer is injected into your bloodstream and collects in areas of bone that may be cancerous, showing up as "hot spots" on the scan.
CT scan: Detailed 3-D images of your internal organs are created using special X-rays. A dye may be used to enhance the images.
MRI: Strong magnets are used to create detailed images of your organs and structures, particularly the brain and bones.
Ultrasound: Sound waves are used to look for tumors in the liver or other abdominal organs.
X-rays: Quick and simple X-rays can reveal changes in bones, such as fractures or breaks, but lack the detail of other imaging tests.

Biopsy

If imaging tests suggest the presence of metastatic breast cancer, your doctor may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. A small sample of the suspicious tissue will be removed (often with a needle) and analyzed in a laboratory to determine if breast cancer cells are present. Additional lab tests may be conducted to differentiate between breast cancer cells and other types of cancer cells.

Understanding Your Test Results

Waiting for test results can be stressful, but it's important to remember that the relatively short wait time usually does not impact the progression of the cancer. Imaging test results are typically available within a day or two, while biopsy results may take up to a week. Your doctor will inform you of how you will receive your results, whether by phone call or office visit. If you have not heard from your doctor within a week, don't hesitate to call their office.

If you have any questions or concerns during this waiting period, discuss them with your doctor. They can provide you with the information and support you need to better understand your situation and the available treatment options for metastatic breast cancer.

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