Secondary (metastatic) breast cancer

Secondary breast cancer occurs when breast cancer cells spread from the first, primary tumour in the breast to another distant part of your body. This may happen via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

This type of spread is also described as metastases, advanced breast cancer or stage 4 cancer.

Secondary breast cancer is most commonly found in the bone, the lungs, the liver, and the brain.

Usually secondary breast cancer is diagnosed some time after the primary breast cancer, but occasionally it may be diagnosed at the same time as the primary breast cancer. In rare cases this may be without any signs or symptoms of primary breast cancer.

When you have secondary breast cancer it means that the cancer can be treated but it can’t be cured. The aim is to manage any symptoms and improve quality of life by slowing down the growth of the cancer. There are many treatments that can keep the cancer under control, often for many years.

Your specialist will be able to tell you about the likely progress of your cancer, and what you might expect.

Helpline nurse, Cathie Teague, looks at some of the possible reactions people may have to a diagnosis of secondary breast cancer.