Lung Metastases

The lungs are a primary site for breast cancer spread, second to the bones. Studies show that first metastases go to the lungs (1, 2) in approximately 19 percent of cases.

Symptoms of lung metastases vary. Some patients are diagnosed on a routine checkup, but most do have symptoms. These may include a persistent dry cough not associated with other health issues, unexplained shortness of breath, or a dull pain in the back or side.

Metastases are usually detected through chest X-ray, CT scan or MRI. Surgery is performed when the tumor can be removed. Most patients are treated with chemotherapy, and radiation may be used in some cases.

Our booklet for metastatic breast cancer patients, I Still Buy Green Bananas (PDF), is available to answer more of your questions. Feel free to call Y-ME’s 24/7 Hotline (800-221-2141) anytime and speak with someone who’s been there.

1. The GIVIO Investigators. (1994). Impact of follow-up testing on survival and health-related quality of life in breast cancer patients. Journal of the American Medical Association, 271(20), 1587-1792.
2. Rosselli Del Turco, M., et al. Intensive diagnostic follow-up after treatment of primary breast cancer. Journal of the American Medical Association, 271(20), 1593-1597.

May 2007