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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Calcifications second year mammogram after surgery
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Calcifications second year mammogram after surgery
by debscadenza, Feb 10, 2004 12:00AM
I had a partial mastectomy (3cm ductal, 2/8 lymph nodes positive, Her2 +, hormone- ) in December 2001 followed by chemo (A/C & Taxol), radiation (breast and nodes) and clinical trial (52 weeks herceptin). I just had my second annual mammogram since the surgery and it showed calcifications along the area where the tumor was removed. The radiologist, upon review of follow-up films, stated that the calcifications were not in a formation that would lead her to believe that they are cancerous, rather post-surgery changes. She recommends follow-up in 6 months.
I have requested a follow-up with my new surgeon, I have moved out of state since surgery, which the radiologist does not think is necessary. I have also requested that last year's mammograms be sent to him for comparison. What are the factors or characteristics that lead to the determination & evaluation of calcifications, and what other questions or issues should I consider in preparation to meet with my surgeon?
Thanks in advance for your help.
I have requested a follow-up with my new surgeon, I have moved out of state since surgery, which the radiologist does not think is necessary. I have also requested that last year's mammograms be sent to him for comparison. What are the factors or characteristics that lead to the determination & evaluation of calcifications, and what other questions or issues should I consider in preparation to meet with my surgeon?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-rf, Feb 10, 2004 12:00AM
Dear debscadenza: Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue. There are different types of microcalcifications, and based on their pattern on the mammogram it gives the radiologist clues as to their cause. For instance microcalcifications that are more scattered are probably due to a benign (non-cancerous) cause, a “cluster” of microcalcifications may increase concern that there may be an underlying tumor. If the microcalcification pattern is indeterminate the radiologist usually recommends a more focused mammogram (diagnostic) which would include magnified views to the area. These magnified views will help to clarify what is being seen on the mammogram. If there is an area of concern you will probably be referred to a breast surgeon for a biopsy. This will determine if there is a cancer present.
Member Comments (3)
by surgeon, Feb 10, 2004 12:00AM
It's a frustrating fact that scar tissue can form calcifications; so your situation is not rare. Calcifications can appear in the operative field and raise questions. There are patterns of shapes, sizes, distribution that offer clues one way or the other. It's often possible to be fairly confident that certain patterns are innocent. Radiologists tend to be pretty cautious, so when they recommend followup only, it usually means they are confident. However, it never hurts to get another opinion, more views of the area, etc.
by ritavv, Feb 10, 2004 12:00AM
My 2 year follow-up mammogram also showed calcifications at my tumor site. However, the radiologist said that they were suspicious and recommended a biopsy. Since it was so close to the chest wall, they couldn't get a sample with stereotactic biopsy, so I had an excisional biopsy in Sept. The pathology was benign.
