Stage IV

The cancer has spread to other organs of the body -- most often the bones, lungs, liver, or brain

Surgery, radiation, or both may be used, depending on many individual factors

Enlarged lymph nodes may be treated if they are producing signs (medical findings) or uncomfortable symptoms

Almost always recommended

Used for people with hormone-receptor-positive cancer

May be used for people with cancers that have certain characteristics (for example, cancers with too many HER2 protein receptors)

Radiation most commonly used to relieve specific signs or uncomfortable symptoms

AND/OR

Surgery may have a role in dealing with specific signs or symptoms