Metastatic Breast Cancer: What to Watch For and How It's Treated

Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is an advanced stage where breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain.

Early recognition of symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management. This article highlights the common signs of MBC and the available treatment options.

Symptoms vary depending on the affected organ:

• Bone Pain: Persistent pain in the back, hips, or legs may indicate bone metastases.

• Shortness of Breath: Lung involvement can cause breathing difficulties or a chronic cough.

• Abdominal Discomfort: Liver metastases may result in abdominal pain, swelling, or nausea.

• Neurological Symptoms: Brain metastases can lead to headaches, vision problems, or memory issues.

• Fatigue: A common symptom due to the cancer's impact and treatments.

• Swelling: Peripheral edema, often in the feet or legs, can occur due to cancer or its treatments.

Persistent symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider.

MBC affects a significant number of breast cancer patients. From 2001 to 2021, 5.6% of new breast cancer cases in the U.S. were metastatic at diagnosis, with incidence rates increasing over time. About one-third of breast cancer cases eventually metastasize, with African American women experiencing a 40% higher mortality rate compared to white women.

While MBC is incurable, treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression:

• Ibrance (Palbociclib): A CDK4/6 inhibitor used with hormone therapy for HR+, HER2-negative MBC. It can improve progression-free survival but may cause fatigue and lower white blood cell counts.

• Verzenio (Abemaciclib): Another CDK4/6 inhibitor effective for HR+, HER2-negative MBC. Side effects include diarrhea and fatigue.

• Kisqali (Ribociclib): Used with hormone therapy, it can extend progression-free survival but may cause nausea and elevated liver enzymes.

• Nerlynx (Neratinib): A tyrosine kinase inhibitor for HER2-positive MBC. It may improve outcomes but can lead to diarrhea and fatigue.

MBC is a complex condition, but early symptom recognition and personalized treatments can significantly improve quality of life. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to explore the best treatment options.