DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically diagnosed, stage IV adenocarcinoma of the breast Previously untreated or prior adjuvant chemotherapy only CR or PR following 3-5 courses of induction chemotherapy for current diagnosis with one of the following: Cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin Cyclophosphamide/methotrexate/fluorouracil Cyclophosphamide/mitoxantrone No active CNS metastases on CT or MRI Hormone receptor status: Any status