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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Could a breast reduction surgery cause difficulity in reading mammogram?
Answered by
Cleveland - OH
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.
Could a breast reduction surgery cause difficulity in reading mammogram?
by dee dee, Feb 13, 2007 12:00AM
I only ask 'cause I had a follow up mammo last Friday. They took about 20 xrays trying to pinpoint the general area of "calcifications" and density. Said it had changed from last years mammo, which I knew nothing about, by the way.
Anyway, at the end of the day, the radiologist just said that no biopsy was needed at this time and to return in 6 months.
I was not given any detailed information. The xray tech's said it was possible that scar tissue was hindering them finding the spot of calcifications clearly. Should I wait the 6 months or ask for the biopsy anyway. Right now, I'm of the mind to wait for the 6 mo. follow up.
Thank you in advance for answering my question.
Anyway, at the end of the day, the radiologist just said that no biopsy was needed at this time and to return in 6 months.
I was not given any detailed information. The xray tech's said it was possible that scar tissue was hindering them finding the spot of calcifications clearly. Should I wait the 6 months or ask for the biopsy anyway. Right now, I'm of the mind to wait for the 6 mo. follow up.
Thank you in advance for answering my question.
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, Feb 13, 2007 12:00AM
, Feb 13, 2007 12:00AM
Dear dee dee: Without being able to review the films and compare, we cannot speculate on the nature of the calcifications or what the recommendations should be. 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. There may or may not be any 'lesion' visible on mammography. However, if the microcalcificantions appear suspicious, further investigation, such as a biopsy, may be recommended. If the calcifications are not “suspicious,” sooner follow (such as 6 months) may be recommended to be certain there are no changes. You may wish to discuss this further with your doctor who can put the information together with any findings on breast examination.
