Can metastatic breast cancer go into long-term remission?

Question

Hi doctor,

My 44-year-old wife was initially treated for stage 2 breast cancer three years ago with surgery and chemotherapy, but now the cancer has spread to her bones and liver. The oncologist calls it metastatic breast cancer and says it is no longer curable but treatable.

She is currently on Letrozole and Palbociclib, but her tumor markers keep rising, and the last CT (computed tomography) scan showed new lesions. The bone metastases cause severe pain, especially in her spine and ribs, which keeps her awake at night. She takes Oxycodone for pain, but it makes her constipated and foggy.

The most difficult part is explaining to our 8 and 11-year-old kids why mommy is sick again after we told them she was cured. She is determined to see them graduate high school, but is scared about how much time she has left. I am also worried about the financial burden because, even with insurance, the medications cost thousands of dollars monthly. Can metastatic breast cancer ever go into long-term remission?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

You are suffering from metastatic breast cancer, in which the cancer has spread from the breast to the bones and liver. This diagnosis means the cancer is currently incurable but treatable to control disease progression, relieve symptoms, and maintain quality of life.

The current treatment with Letrozole (an aromatase inhibitor) and Palbociclib is standard for hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer, but the rising tumor markers and new lesions indicate disease progression despite therapy.

Studies suggest a small percentage of patients achieve long-term complete remission beyond five years, with a lower tumor burden, younger age, and good performance status associated with better outcomes. Expected survival in metastatic breast cancer varies greatly, but many patients live several years with good control using modern therapies, including targeted agents like palbociclib combined with endocrine therapy.

Bone metastases cause severe pain, often managed with opioids like Oxycodone; however, side effects such as constipation and cognitive fog are common. I can prescribe an alternative for bone pain. If you like, please follow up for the prescription. Tell the truth to your children, make memorable moments with them, share your knowledge and experience along with explaining to them how to endure and survive in life for coming future. By doing so, you are ensuring your children are emotionally resilient, and they will never fear death and will have a positive attitude towards life. For financial assistance, contact a non-profit organisation and a hospital, which provide aid to many. If you like my advice, please follow up for assistance and a prescription.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.