What Is Metastatic Breast Cancer?
Metastatic breast cancer is also classified as stage 4 breast cancer. Cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This usually includes the lungs, liver, bones or brain.
How does cancer spread or metastasize?
The spread of cancer usually occurs through one or more of the following steps:
How does cancer spread or metastasize?
The spread of cancer usually occurs through one or more of the following steps:
- Cancer cells invade nearby healthy cells. When the healthy cell is taken, it can also replicate more abnormal cells.
- Cancer cells penetrate the circulatory or lymphatic system. Cancer cells travel through the walls of nearby lymph vessels or blood vessels.
- Migration through the circulation. Cancer cells are carried by the lymphatic system and the bloodstream to other parts of the body.
- Cancer cells lodge in capillaries. Cancer cells stop moving when they are housed in capillaries at a distant site and divide and migrate to the surrounding tissue.
- New small tumors grow. Cancer cells form small tumors in the new site (called micrometastases).
"By the time I found out I had cancer, I had a game plan that I would fight for. There is no other option."
Renee Bravo discovered a lump during breast self-examination and suffered from severe back pain. She was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer on April 27, 2007. Renee lived every day with hope until her death on January 25, 2011.
Watch Renee's inspiring story to learn how she continued to smile amidst her stage 4 breast cancer. We continue to remember Renee's courage.
Renee Bravo discovered a lump during breast self-examination and suffered from severe back pain. She was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer on April 27, 2007. Renee lived every day with hope until her death on January 25, 2011.
Watch Renee's inspiring story to learn how she continued to smile amidst her stage 4 breast cancer. We continue to remember Renee's courage.
