DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed metastatic breast cancer Bidimensionally measurable disease of any of the following types required: Bidimensionally measurable lung lesions on chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI Palpable and quantifiable lymph nodes at least 2 x 2 cm Abdominal mass at least 2 x 2 cm quantifiable by CT scan Bidimensionally measurable liver metastases at least 2 x 2 cm Palpable hepatomegaly if liver edge is clearly defined and extends at least 5 cm below the costal margin of the xiphoid process Unacceptable as measurable disease: Diffuse lung infiltration or unidimensionally measurable hilar lesions Pelvic mass of indefinite dimension Bone metastases Pleural effusion or ascites No brain metastases Must have failed or progressed on prior therapy or relapsed less than 12 months after therapy discontinuation Hormone receptor status: Not specified