Breast Biopsy

Hello,  I am having a Sterotactic Biopsy because one breast seems to have a mass of calcifications.  What do you think?

[iam1butterfly]

According to the surgeon who recommended my stereotatic biopsy, calcifications are rarely, if ever, found to be cancerous. But, it's when they grow in clusters that causes concern... and, that's when biopsies are recommended.

Statistically, it's highly likely that they're benign. Good luck with the biopsy.

[zouzi]

Hi,
Microcalcifications are quite normal in breast tissue and they are not harmful.  However, microcalcifications that grow in a cluster (grouped) are suspicious because they sometimes cluster around a mass. In other words, while the mass may not be visualized on film, a cluster of microcalcifications may indicate that there is abnormal growth in the area. It is proper in most cases to biopsy the area of microcalcifications.This would most likely be done with mammography guidance.The only way to determine if there is any cancer is to biopsy.Many biopsies done on clustered calcification return a benign finding and I hope that your biopsy results will be favorable.
Best wishes...

[ncmichigan]

Absolutely agree with bb and zouzi---great answers! Just want to add my good wishes for an easy biopsy and benign results. The statistics are in your favor, so stay positive and don't focus on the "what ifs". I think everyone would agree the worst part of the whole thing is waiting for the results, but worrying won't change anything. Know that you will have support from some wonderful women here once you have a conclusive answer.
Wishing you all the best and sending a big hug (     ),
nc