Understanding the Spread of Breast Cancer
Metastatic breast cancer occurs when breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body. Being aware of the common sites where breast cancer can metastasize is crucial for monitoring your health and detecting issues early on. Different types of breast cancer can impact where the cancer spreads, based on the receptors present on the cancer cells.
Types of breast cancer include:
– Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive
– Luminal A (hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative)
– Luminal B (hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative or HER2-positive)
– Triple-negative (hormone receptor- and HER2-negative)
Lymph Nodes:
Lymph nodes are small glands in the immune and lymphatic systems that filter fluid. They are commonly found under the armpit near the breast and are often the initial site of breast cancer spread. Lymph nodes near the collarbone or in the chest can also be affected.
Bones:
Around 70% of people with metastatic breast cancer develop bone metastases. Cancer cells can travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and settle in the bones, disrupting the normal bone remodeling process. This can weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures, with common sites being the spine, hips, and ribs.
Lungs:
The lungs are another frequent site for breast cancer metastasis due to the extensive network of blood vessels that facilitate cancer cell migration. Initially, there may be no noticeable symptoms when breast cancer spreads to the lungs.
Liver:
Metastatic breast cancer often targets the liver because of its function as a blood filter. Cancer cells in the bloodstream can accumulate in the liver, leading to tumor growth. Liver metastases can result in serious health issues due to the liver’s role in detoxification.
Brain:
Although brain metastases are less common, breast cancer can spread to the brain, particularly in HER2-positive and triple-negative subtypes. Cancer cells can breach the blood-brain barrier and form tumors in the brain or surrounding fluid.
Peritoneal Cavity:
While less common, breast cancer can spread to the peritoneal cavity, housing abdominal organs. Cancer cells can disseminate through the peritoneum lining this region.
Metastatic breast cancer involves a complex process where cancer cells break away from the primary tumor, circulating through the body via blood vessels or lymphatic channels. Some cells may grow in new locations, leading to metastases. Understanding how breast cancer spreads is essential for effective monitoring and treatment.
As cancer cells continue to grow and spread through the body, they can form new tumors in different areas, a process known as metastasis. While not all cancer cells will spread, some may find suitable conditions to thrive in new tissues. Ongoing research is focused on understanding the mechanisms of how breast cancer spreads and developing more effective treatments for it.
Signs that indicate breast cancer has spread may vary depending on the location of metastasis. Common symptoms to look out for include changes in vision or balance, persistent fatigue, chronic pain in a specific area, difficulty breathing, a lingering cough, unusual swelling or lumps, unexplained weight loss, and more.
Although rare, breast cancer can metastasize to distant sites in the body, such as the adrenal glands, eyes, heart, kidneys, pancreas, and skin. If there are concerns about the spread of breast cancer, it is crucial to seek advice from healthcare professionals promptly. They can conduct tests like imaging scans or blood work to determine the extent of metastasis and the affected sites.
