1
What is MBC?
Metastatic breast cancer, also known as stage IV breast cancer or advanced breast cancer, is a form of breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body.
2
How does MBC differ from other cancers?
Even when breast cancer spreads to other organs, it’s still considered breast cancer—not lung, liver, or bone cancer, as it retains the characteristics of the original organ.
3
Is MBC curable?
MBC is not curable, but it may be treatable as a chronic illness. The goals of treatment are to manage tumor growth, improve quality of life, and extend lifespan.
4
What are the subtypes of MBC?
There are several main molecular subtypes of MBC. These are determined by biomarker testing for estrogen and progesterone hormone receptors (HRs) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status.
Hormone receptor-positive (HR+): These are cancers that grow in response to the presence of hormone receptors like estrogen and/or progesterone.
HER2-expressing: HER2 protein expression in a tumor exists on a spectrum from low levels of HER2 expression to an overexpression of the HER2 protein. Cancers with higher-than-normal levels of HER2 protein expression are considered HER2-positive.
Triple-negative: These are cancers that grow in the absence of hormone receptors and without a higher-than-normal level of HER2 expression.
Visit the Understanding Biomarkers and Subtypes of MBC pages for a detailed look.
5
How is MBC treated?
Treatment for MBC is increasingly personalized. Tumor subtype as well as genetic, biological, and personal factors may help shape your care plan. Biomarker testing plays a major role in guiding treatment decisions.
6
How does treatment for MBC differ from treatment for other types of breast cancer?
Treatment for breast cancer that has metastasized aims to help manage the cancer, slow its progression, and improve quality of life. This is different from treatment for early-stage, non-metastatic breast cancer (stages 1, 2, and 3), which aims to get rid of all the cancer.
7
How can I actively manage MBC?
Work closely with your care team to manage the disease. Ask a lot of questions, take notes, and be a part of treatment discussions. Learn what you can about your subtype of MBC. Being educated and involved in decision making helps you be an active participant in your cancer care.
8
How do I proceed if I’ve previously been diagnosed with breast cancer?
Breast cancer can recur even after previous treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. While treatment can initially lead to remission, if some cancer cells remain, they can grow and spread. The most important thing is to stay focused and work with your care team to determine options that may help manage your disease.
