Stage IV MBC

[Gingerann1]

I notice on a lot of the posts and Bios of members that reference is made to being diagnosed as “stage IV” MBC as opposed to Stage ???. I understood if you are diagnosed with MBC that means you are Stage IV. Is there anyone out there that has MBC that was told they weren’t?

[Gingerann1]

Thanks for the clarification Sandra. It was a little confusing.

[luckysmom13]

It is redundant to say, but can help non-medical people understand what you mean. If they don't know what Stage 4 or metastatic mean, then it wouldn't be helpful.

[queeneee]

I was told that I was stage 4 because the MBC had spread to my liver (organs rather than just bones) . FYI, even if your condition improves, they don't change your staging.

[Bexly]

I was diagnosed with Stage 4 MBC because it spread to my bones. I have been on Ibrance and Letrozole for about 3 years. I have CT and whole body nuclear scan every 3 months to check for further spreading. So far, so good.

[Andersl]

'Metastatic' or 'stage 4' or 'metastatic stage 4' cancer is when the cancer has spread to anyone one or more of the following:

Bones

Liver

Brain

Lungs

[Gingerann1 in reply to Andersl]

Thanks for responding. I guess my point is when posting or talking about being diagnosed with MBC, it is Stage IV…to say you have MBC, stage VI, advanced BC is interchangeable. Best to you and all of us living with MBC.