Where breast cancer can spread

Metastasis happens when breast cancer cells travel and grow in another organ. Even when found in bone, lung, liver or brain, the tumour is still breast cancer because it began in breast tissue. This differs from a new cancer that starts in the organ itself.

Symptoms depend on the site and size of the deposits, and some spread is found on imaging before symptoms develop. Bone involvement may cause persistent focal pain or a fracture. Lung involvement may cause breathlessness or cough; liver involvement may cause abdominal discomfort or yellowing; brain involvement may cause new neurological symptoms. Each of these symptoms also has non-cancerous explanations.

Tell the oncology team about a new symptom that persists, worsens or affects everyday function. They will consider the symptom pattern, examination findings and cancer history before deciding whether blood tests, imaging or a biopsy are needed. Routine aches or coughs should not be assumed to be metastasis, but ongoing changes deserve a clear explanation.

If metastatic disease is confirmed, treatment is selected using the cancer’s current features, previous therapies, the organs involved, symptoms and personal priorities. Supportive care can be given alongside cancer-directed treatment to manage pain, breathing problems, nausea, mobility or neurological effects.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden weakness or numbness, a seizure, confusion, severe breathing difficulty, coughing blood, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe back pain with leg weakness. These warning signs can reflect pressure on the brain, lungs or spinal cord and should be assessed immediately, whatever their cause.

Ask what prompted each test, which body areas it evaluates, and whether a tissue sample is needed to confirm the finding. If spread is identified, ask which symptoms treatment aims to improve, how response will be monitored, and whom to contact for a new neurological, breathing or pain symptom.