DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically documented metastatic adenocarcinoma of the breast Concurrent intraductal or lobular carcinoma in situ allowed Bilateral disease allowed Measurable or evaluable recurrent metastatic disease (Stage IIIB or IV) documented by radiograph, CT scan, nuclear medicine scan, or physical exam Tumor must be clinically chemosensitive as documented by a reduction in tumor burden No clinical evidence of brain metastases