Bone Metastasis

What is the method to look for a bone metastases from breast cancer? I have had awful pain in my right arm/shoulder for 4 months. MRI showed torn biceps tendon and other small bursal tears and tendonitis, and a rotator cuff tear. Would a bone metastases have been revealed on the MRI of my arm and shoulder? Should I ask for a bone scan? I am 57 years old and have been cancer free since a stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis 8 years ago. I am worried that the pain does not go away.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear annaevangelina:  From what you describe, you have plenty of reasons to have a very painful arm and shoulder.  MRI is not the premier test for bones but likely a bone defect would show up.  Plain x-ray may also show a bone met.  You may want to ask your orthopedic doctor about those results and whether these other problems explain the pain and whether there are any interventions for this.  If you remain concerned you can ask your doctor about a bone scan.

[SueYoung55]

I agree that the pain in your arm is from all the damage you describe. However, you should be getting regular PET/CT scans.

ps.. the rotator cuff tear took 6 months to heal