What is Metastatic Breast Cancer?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we are going to talk about what exactly breast cancer is and some common terms you may hear associated with this disease. The most important thing about cancer is that education and early detection are key to catching and stopping the spread of this disease.

What is Breast Cancer?

As the name suggests, breast cancer is simply cancer that begins in the breast. The breast sits on the top of the upper ribs and chest and is made up of glands, ducts, and fatty tissue. Breast cancer starts when cells begin to uncontrollably grow and this can often be felt as a lump in the breast. It is important to understand that not all breast lumps are cancerous, in fact, most are benign. It is important that if you feel a lump or notice any changes in your breast get it checked by a healthcare professional.

What does Metastatic mean?

When you hear the term "metastatic breast cancer" it means that cancer has spread to other parts of the body. When breast cancer spreads the cancerous cells get into the blood or lymph system where the vessels carry fluid away from the breast and into your lymph nodes, and from there are carried to other parts of the body. This is referred to as metastasis or advanced breast cancer. Metastatic breast cancer can spread to any part of the body, but most often spreads to the lungs, bones, and brain.

How is Metastatic Breast Cancer diagnosed?

Metastatic breast cancer is often diagnosed after a previous diagnosis and treatment, sometimes not reoccurring until years later. Stage IV breast cancer occurs when a person is diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer as their first diagnosis. When testing for metastatic breast cancer, a doctor will often use tests such as:

• X-Ray
  
• Bone Scan
  
• CAT Scan
  
• PET Scan
• MRI 
  

An important test to determine if breast cancer is metastatic is a biopsy of the breast tumor. During a biopsy, a doctor will remove a portion of tissue to examine under a microscope to examine the cells. This is an extremely important test that will determine how cancer will behave and will allow doctor to make treatment recommendations. 

When should I start screening for breast cancer?

It is recommended by the American Cancer Society that women ages 40-44 have the option to start annual breast cancer screening through mammograms and continue to do so until age 55. If you are considered at a higher risk for breast cancer due to family history it is recommended to also screen for breast cancer with an annual MRI. Talk with your healthcare provider about the right screening options for you.

If you or a loved one have recently been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer it is important to know that you are not alone. Slidell Memorial hosts a wide array of support groups for individuals living with cancer and family members. For information about the cancer screenings and breast cancer treatment options offered at the Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center call (985) 280-6600.