Breast calcifications -- Get a 2nd opinion or no?

[beachlover89]

Hi, went for my first mammogram ever last week.  The hext day, doctor called and asked me to go in for a spot compression mammogram and ultrasound.  Went on Tuesday and whilte there, the tech went over left breast five times.  Afterwards she said I could go without having ultrasound done.  Doctor called me yesterday and said I had breast calcifications and nothing to worry about and see you in 12 months.  When I pressed further, he commented that he was not a radiologist and couldn't tell me exactly what they saw but it was okay.  I felt relief until several friends told me you need to get a 2nd opinion and why didn;t they do a biopsy because that is the only true way to say you have nothing to worry about -- also told me of several of theirs friends that let it go and turned out it was cancer.  Should I get a second opinion?  How do I go about doing so and who would I see doctor or radiologist to read mammograms?  Thanks for help!

[PaulMD]

BIRADS 2 signifies a benign finding, and recommendations for this include follow up mammograms.  However, for your peace of mind, I believe it is OK to have your mammo plates read by another radiologist for a second opinion.  Regards.

[beachlover89]

Thanks for the information and website Paul.  I spoke with radiologist and he wouldn't give me information as to what category the BIRADS system showed so I called my OB/GYN's office and they informed me that it was a category 2.  Should I feel comfortable with this or go ahead and get the second opinion anyway?  Also, I live in the Cleveland, Ohio area and the hospital that this was done at is not what I would necessarily pick as a first choice for women's health.  There are two other hospitals that are world renowned for women's health that I would have gone to before this facility.  Thanks again for the information.

Laura

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

Mammogram findings are usually reported in BIRADS system.  I suggest that before seeking second opinion that you ask the first radiologist regarding the BIRADS report.  This will give direction regarding what steps are to be undertaken.  You can find more about BIRADS in this website:

http://womenshealth.aetna.com/WH/ihtWH/r.WSIHW000/st.35891/t.35906.html

Regards and God bless.