59 year old with breast lump

[gam59]

I am a 59 year old female and discovered a small (nickel sized) lump in my breast about 3 weeks ago.  A mammogram done last February was normal.  Discovered the lump because I had some tenderness in the breast.  Saw my GYN and he referred me to a breast specialist/surgeon.  Specialist did an ultrasound and said the lump was "a solid mass" that needed a biopsy.  No breast cancer in my family.  I know that most breast lumps are benign, but I have been doing some research on the internet and some of that suggests that masses in women of my age are quite likely to be cancer.  I am scheduled for the biopsy next week.  How likely is it that this is cancer?  What kinds of questions should I be asking of the breast specialist?  I am scared and need some answers.
Thanks.

[gam59]

I got my biopsy results today and the news was all good - "no evidence of malignancy".  The doctor still recommends removing the lump and that will be done next month.  I feel as if a tremendous weight has been lifted from my shoulders.  I know how lucky I am, and I ache for those women who were not as fortunate as I.  I don't know how to thank you for the words of strength and encouragement you offered when I was so scared.  May God bless you and all of the others who generously share their experience and knowledge with those in need on this forum.  I am in your debt.

[gam59]

Had the biopsy today.  That was an experience I don't want to repeat!  The surgeon is very optimistic - says the growth on the ultrasound does not show the characteristics of cancer and that she forsees good news from the biopsy.  I have a follow up appointment to get the results next week.  Thank you so much for your encouragement..  I was really scared and your counsel helped tremendously.  I will let you know what next week brings.

[gam59]

Thanks for your insight.  The biospy is scheduled for tomorrow and they said it could be as much as a week before I get the results.  This uncertainty is driving me nuts.  Keep me in your prayers and I will let you know what I find out.  Thanks again!!

Gwen

[lizziecee]

Hi there - I was 58 yrs when I was dx with bc.some 4 yrs ago.   It was my 3rd mammo (we only get them every 3 yrs in England) and I had no palpable lump, even by my local GP.  It came as a big shock when I was recalled to a breast care centre - they did the 3 step procedure: compression mammo, ultrasound and biopsy the same day.
It was obvious I had breast cancer, as they showed me the tumour on the mammo and ultrasound, and even had a date for surgery! The tumour was spiculated, like a starburst, and I just knew I had cancer - perhaps I am a white witch!  

I am surprised that the doctor who did your ultrasound did not not also do a biopsy that day. A solid mass is not a cyst (which can be aspirated) but it could be a fibroadenoma. It is good you are having a biopsy next week.  It will take a few days (mine took 4 days) to get the results, as the tissue has to be looked at by a pathologist. Ask for a copy of the path report, as this is very important information should it unfortunately be bc. Once you have this information, is the time to start asking questions. We can help with deciphering the terminology of the path report - it was like reading a foreign language to me at first.

As your research has shown, and as I was told at the breast care centre, some 80% of lumps are benign, but you need to know for sure. However, don't jump the gun just yet.....your lump could very well be benign.

I do hope all goes well for you next week and the lump is benign.
Hugs for B9!

Liz.