DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed metastatic breast cancer that has demonstrated at least partial response to any salvage regimen Partial response defined as at least 50% reduction in measurable or evaluable disease for at least 4 weeks, no disease progression, no new lesions, or bone lesions that remain static for at least 8 weeks with an improvement in pain symptoms No more than 3 organs involved with metastatic disease No prior or active CNS involvement Hormone receptor status: Not specified