Breast cancer that returns and spreads to other parts of the body is called a distant recurrence, or metastasis. This is metastatic breast cancer and may also be called stage IV or advanced breast cancer.

Metastasis is usually found when new and persistent symptoms are reported to a health care provider and follow-up tests are done. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, weight loss and bone pain.

Based on the symptoms, tests are done to see if the cancer has metastasized. Follow- up tests include blood tests, imaging tests, such as bone scans, CT scans, PET scans, chest X-rays and a tissue biopsy.

Common places where breast cancer may spread are the bones, lungs, liver and brain. Tests are done to determine which organs are involved and the hormone receptor and HER2 status of the tumor. Then, you and your oncologist can discuss your treatment options.

At this time, metastatic cancer cannot be cured, but it can be treated, and some people live many years with metastatic breast cancer.

Metastatic breast cancer can cause pain in the areas where the cancer has recurred and it’s important to manage any pain related to metastatic breast cancer.