Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

Which are among the most common sites of metastatic disease in breast cancer?

1. Bone, liver, and kidneys

2. Lung, brain, and skin

3. Bone, brain, and lung

4. Heart, pancreas, and spleen

The correct answer is: Bone, brain, and lung

Breast cancer is known for its potential to spread (metastasize) to various sites in the body. The most common metastatic sites for breast cancer include the bone, brain, and lung. Bone is often a primary site for metastasis due to its rich blood supply and the nature of cancer cells to seek the osseous environment, which can support their growth. Bone metastases are particularly common in breast cancer, leading to significant complications like pain and fractures. The brain is another frequent site of metastasis for breast cancer. The blood-brain barrier does pose a challenge for many drugs, but once cancer cells penetrate this barrier, they can grow and create secondary tumors, which can lead to neurological symptoms and complications. The lungs are also a common site of metastatic involvement. Cancer can spread to the lungs either through the bloodstream or via lymphatic channels. This can result in respiratory issues and can complicate treatment options. Other sites mentioned in the options, like the kidneys, heart, pancreas, and spleen, may involve metastasis in some cases, but they are not as commonly associated with breast cancer specifically. The prevalence of bone, brain, and lung metastases reflects the biological behavior of breast cancer and emphasizes the importance of monitoring for these