Prognosis and treatment of metastatic breast cancer is determined by the extent and location of metastases. Common locations for metastatic breast cancer to appear include the brain, liver, lung, bone or lymph nodes.
Staging
In order to determine if the breast cancer has spread to other organs, a process called staging must occur. This is done by identifying the size of the tumor in the breast, lymph node involvement and the distance from the breast where other cancer is identified. For example, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, stage IV breast cancer shows the existence of cancer in lymph nodes near the collarbone or in organs such as the brain, lungs and liver.
Significance
Early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer is critical to long-term survival. The chances for a five-year survival rate drops dramatically from a stage I breast cancer to a stage IV.
Diagnosis
Tests such as a bone scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) scan, along with a blood profile to look for various cancer markers, may be performed to determine the existence and extent of metastatic breast cancer.
Treatment
According to imaginis.com, the most common region metastatic breast cancer is found is in the bones, followed by the lungs and liver. Regardless of the location, the focus is primarily on comfort. Treatment may include surgical removal of the tumor and/or some type of chemotherapy. Radiation therapy may be included as a palliative measure to reduce tumor size.
Prognosis
The prognosis for metastatic breast cancer is much improved over past decades, where it was almost a certain death sentence. According to Breastcancer.org, advancements in early detection and new treatment regimens offer hope for living a productive and long life.
Warning
Pay attention to warning signs of metastatic breast cancer. For anyone living with the diagnosis of breast cancer, it is imperative to be aware of changes that would suggest other areas of the body may be affected. These signs may include unexplained pain, swelling, fatigue, or mental and emotional changes.
Tags: metastatic breast, breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer, breast cancer, breast cancer, lungs liver, lymph nodes
