Calcification and breast cancer risk

[Lana Rana]

My recent mammogram indicates:A group of few newly developed calcifications is seen in the lower outer quadrant of the left breast which probably represent adenosic calcifications
However a follow up mammogram is recommended after 6 months to ensure stability
No spiculated lesions,vascular or skin changes are demonstrated.

I am very worried: what are my risks of having breast cancer and in case I have some malignancy  do you think I am still at a very early stage

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear lana rana: 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.  The report issued by your radiologist suggests that these calcifications appear benign but he/she wants to repeat the mammogram in 6 months to be certain there are no changes.  If you are concerned you can seek a second opinion,  preferrably with a breast specialist.

[susan s]

I also have microcalcifications.  The showed up on my Mammo in Dec/04, adn I had a biopsy in Jan/05.  No canserous cells were found.  In my Mammo last week July/06, additional calcifications have shown up in the same general area.  Teh surgeon is suggesting another biopsy. I am concerned as to whether I wil have to go thru this every 12 to 18 months.  If I ccontinue to develope additional calicifications should they be biopsyed every time?  Is it common for calcifications to continue to develope, is there anyting one can do to reduce the the production of calcifications.

[Avidhiker]

What did the radiologist reading your mammo rate it?  They rate abnormalities from Rad1 to Rad5, with Rad5 being highly suspicious.  Mine was a Rad4 for microcalcifications because the radilogist could not determine whether they appeared to be benign or malignant.

[Under Forty Pam]

I have lots of microcalcifications and they just now biopsied the first one because it formed a cluster.  They say most are fine and a fact of life and lead to nothing.  If your Dr. is always prone to jump to a biopsy you might try a second opinion.  You should only get a biopsy when they really need more information.  In may case the first biopsy unfortunately proved out to be cancer.  My lumpectomy is tomorrow.  Hope you turn out fine.

[Montana girl 06]

Susan, like you I have new calcifications appearing at a regular rate. I've had 2 biopsies (benign) and my surgeon wants me to have a 3rd. This time I opted for coming back in 3 months for another mammogram to see if there are changes. I can't see having a biopsy every 6 months! I've had 4 different radiologists reading my results (at different times)and I've been to 2 different surgeons over the years and they have all agreed on the biopsies. Whats a woman to do? My birad is 4. One thing I have learned is to ask for the radiologists report so I can be better informed.

[susan s]

Thanks ladies. It realy helps to get your thoughts.  I never knew to ask for the Rad number.

[D J]

I'm so glad I found this site.  I have just been diagnosed with early stage Breast Cancer, and will see the surgeon for the first time tomorrow.  I was just wondering what questions to ask the surgeon, and this one e-mail I just read suggested asking what the Mammo Rad # was rated, I never would have know what to ask and am very grateful for this information.  I too was told that there is a cluster of microcalsafications, and after three mammograms had a Sterotactic Core Biopsy which came back Malignant.  Any more advice as to what questions to ask would be greatly appreciated...

Thank you,
D J

[Montana girl 06]

I don't know if people scroll down this far to read posts. If you want an answer you might want to post farther up where the conversation is still active. (Nobody has posted down this far for quite a while.) I did read on one post that if you have breast cancer you should get, "Breast Cancer For Dummies" because it explains everything, and I also think someone suggested a breast book by Susan Love (but I could have that name wrong). I'm not much help for what questions to ask once you know you have cancer (so far all my biopsies have been benign). Hope your appointment goes well tomorrow.

[cyn17]

Hi DJ - If you Google 'birads' you will find sites that define the different stages. In fact, google all things you're curious about in relation to breast cancer. You'll be amazed at the education you receive. Also, you can do searches on this site and read previous emails that share your same concerns. Good luck!

[rsolis]

I have been feeling this burning pain ever since my surgery everyone told me it's normal due to surgery, It's like when you are nursing, which I nursed my four children and your milk is coming in you feel this sensation of burning until you feed your child, that is what  my breast feels like everyday, I can't explain it any other way and it feels hot.

[cyn17]

What type of surgery did you have and how long ago? After I had a recent biopsy, I developed a hematoma which created the same symptoms you're having...in fact I discribed it to a friend as 'the feeling when your milk comes in'. The symptoms lasted for 3-4 days (the hematoma takes weeks to go away). I iced the first 2 days and used hot compresses the remaining days. If your 'hot' symptoms becomes red and/or with fever, call your doctor.

[rsolis]

I had my surgery 1 year ago, with non-stop burning along with pain.  Everyone I talked to told me that's normal due to having a biopsy done, I had 2 cysts removed which were benign. Now I have Clusters of Microcalification which is worrying me.

[cyn17]

I wonder if the burning is from fibrous tissue? My radiologist told me that's why I have it. He recommended that I take a broccoli supplement that increases good estrogen and reduces symptoms of aching/burning. I haven't made it to the health food store to buy it yet, so can't tell you if it works. The doctor said he's received many phone calls from women that swear by it.

As for the microcalcs...are you getting follow up treatment on that? Or are your doctors just watching them for now?

[rsolis]

I am scheduled for Biopsy on the 19th of September, my birad is a 4, I asked the Radiologist about the pain that I feel and she stated that it was from the surgery I had a year ago.  Anyway I am so nervous can't concentrate at work, don't want to be around anyone but don't want to be alone either.

[cyn17]

I understand your feelings completely. All summer I was consumed with worry and other than people on this site, most didn't understand why I was getting so worked up. For me it was the loss of control over my body that drove me nuts. I was unhappy with my doctor's office and the lack of communication. So I changed doctors, which was HUGE for me in taking back some control. My new doctor is wonderful and the radiologist and nurse that performed my biopsies were outstanding.

All you can do is keep reminding yourself that the odds of this being benign is in your favor and stay strong! And if it isn't benign, you'll take a deep breath and march forward to do whatever needs to be done. Good luck on the 19th and keep us posted on how you're doing.

[rsolis]

Today I got a letter from my doctor saying my Birad is 5, can't call until Monday but could that be an error when they said it was a 4, and if it is an error how could they make such a stupid mistake, now I'm more worried getting this letter, it just get me upset because I'm already worried and now they say I'm a 5 and I know 5 is not good.  

Thank you for your advise and I know I need to be strong it's just at times it get's hard.  I will let you know what happens.  Thank you once again.

[Montana girl 06]

Sorry to hear about the letter. I hope it is a mistake. But, there are 5's that end up benign, so don't give up hope. I'll keep you in my prayers.

[boninclyde]

You may want to read some of my post. But hopefully your was just a mistake.

[cyn17]

I know I'd be concerned about the letter too. And over the weekend no less, when you can't call your doctor. Just keep in mind that ratings are personal opinions (subjective) and you will not know anything conclusively until you have a biopsy. My thoughts are with you!

[rsolis]

Had my biopsy yesterday which was very painful from the first shot to the last, I made them keep giving shots because I felt everything. I was so nervous could not stop shaking and almost past out, I ask if they could give me something to relax they said no. Now I have to wait to hear the news they said earliest would be Friday lastest would be Tuesday.  Anyway, now I'm in pain and still worried.

[cyn17]

I'm sorry it was so painful for you. I have to say, all three of mine have not been fun either. I also had them keep giving me shots, to no avail. Finally I just squeezed the nurses hand really hard and told the radiologist to 'just get it done!' If I have to do this again next year, I want a sedative...and not valium...I want something much stronger!!

Keep using ice packs, then switch to warm compresses the next day. I found I recovered pretty quickly. Hopefully you will too. Wishing you the best...and the best results too!

[rsolis]

Thank you, sorry you had to go through the same thing and many other women also.  I just think the fear I feel takes over everything in my life, I can't stop crying and thinking what am I going to do if I end up having it.  I can't stop thinking about my sister who died and went through it also.  I will let you know what the outcome is again thank you and everyone else that has given me advise, much appreciated.

[cyn17]

I understand completely! My mother had breasy cancer and died 7 years later from secondary cancer in her bile duct/liver. Every biopsy I have is mental torture. It helps knowing we're not alone! Take care.

[snoopy55]

Just read about your biopsy.  I am scheduled to have one on Oct. 6 (my husband's birthday).  The surgeon I met and talked with told me I would be put to sleep.  I had to give them a list of the herbs I am currently taking so they could advise me of what I need to quit taking prior to my procedure.  They said everything was fine, but not to take anything with Garlic or Vitamin E because it will interfere with the anethesia.  So were you not put to sleep or not given that option?  Mine will be outpatient.  I really have a lot of questions, because this is my first.  I had 2 mammograms that came by showing calcifications...no lumps can be felt.  I have been going through menopause and had my last period last Dec.(2005).  Please let me know how you are doing!

[cyn17]

Lucky you! Most everyone I know just have a local. Does your biopsy involve an incision? The biospies I've had have been core needle biopsies.

[boninclyde]

I would have responded to tell you my horrific tell of my biopsy but I thought my pain was because they could not give me the shot with the ephinephrine in it because of a heart condition I have so I wasn't going to share my story. Sorry it was so painful. Keep up posted on the results.

[snoopy55]

Yes, as far as things stand now, I will have a small incision.  I'm going to call the Dr. office tomorrow to make sure of all the specifics.  I was really too nervous the day I went.  I normally have LOW blood pressure, but that afternoon it soared HIGH!  They said this is not unusual when patients first come in for consultation.  Anyway, will let you know what is planned.  I just truly dread this....I will be glad when this next week is over.

[Montana girl 06]

I'm still following your posts. Will continue to keep you in my prayers. Keep us posted.

[boninclyde]

Have you heard anything yet? What is your next step?

[snoopy55]

I finally had my procedure done yesterday(Fri).  Everything went good.  Except I thought they were going to kill me in radiology taking all of those mammograms and trying to pinpoint the area where the calcification was located.  They said it was very small and was really surprised the mammogram picked it up.  I had to stay depressed in the mammogram machine for 40 mins!  That was horrible.  But they were able to pinpoint the exact location, stick the needle and wire in and then readjust the depth of the wire to hit the spot.  The actual surgery only took 30 mins.  They gave me twilight sleep for that so that was good for me.  Dr. said he thinks the spot was benign, will get results when I return to his office on Tues.  I can't go back to work until he sees me though.  So I guess I will return on Wed.  No driving for 48 hrs. nor no shower for 48 hrs.  I am wearing a soft sports bra which is helping with the moving around, not bouncing.  thank you so much for your prayers and support during this time.  You all are wonderful to those going through these experiences.  Just continue to pray that the pathology report will be good news!  Thanks..

[boninclyde]

We will be praying. Let us know.

[mloz]

I am 35 with a strong family hx of breast cancer.  I have been having mammograms since I was 31.  My most recent one showed a change from last year and I had a biopsy done a couple of weeks ago.  I was told that my biopsy was benign.  Some calcification was seen, but they had to look very hard to find it.  The surgeon seemed concerned that he either didn't remove all that he was trying to or that he missed it.  He scheduled me for another mammogram in a few more weeks to see if what they were seeing is still there.  He said it was benign, but should I still be worried or is he just being thorough?

[Montana girl 06]

With your family history of breast cancer they probably don't want to take any chances that they missed something but I'm not a medical professional. If you want a medical opinion you need to post a new question at the top. Also, this thread may close in a day or so since it is on the bottom.

[snoopy55]

I wish I could say that we got good news, but we didn't. However, it could be a lot worse. The doctor said he had good news and bad news. The good news was: it is precancer; the bad news: it is cancer. It is DCIS-Ductal Carcinoma In Situ. (not sure spelling is correct) However, he gave me 2 choices. One-to have a lumpectomy and radiation; two-to have a masectomy with reconstruction. He drew it out and showed us; he gave us some pamplets to read and go over and said he wants to see me on Tuesday. If I have the lumpectomy with radiation and another calcification appears then it is to do all over again. With the masectomy, a plastic surgeon can do the reconstructive surgery immediately after the masectomy and I won't have to have radiation. I would only be out of work about 2 weeks max, he said may even be able to go back for 1/2 days the second week. So I can't stand thinking about having more surgery later on the same breast, so we are going with option 2. Masectomy. I feel at peace with my decision,but, today, I am down.  I have been reading up on everything and now I am feeling overwhelmed.  It just seems like there are so many decisions to make and I want to make the right ones.  I woke up at 2:30 this morning and did not go back to sleep until around 4:00 am.  My husband is taking this extremely hard, so worried about me, and he is a heart patient and diabetic so he does not need this stress on top of his job stress.  Please just pray that God's peace will continue and uphold me through this and my family.  One good thing is that I will be having so many holidays coming(I work at an elementary school) up with which I can rest and recoup.  We are out a whole week at Thanksgiving.  Just please, please uplift me in your prayers.
Thanks

[cyn17]

I'm sorry to hear your news. Stay strong! I will keep you in my prayers.

[boninclyde]

I am so sorry you are having to go through this. It will be a very scary journey but you can do this. I had what they thought was DCIS but after a right masectomy (August 25th) they found invasive cancer. Lots of women have this to happen to them and were glad they had masectomies because otherwise it would not have been found because of their very  dense breast. Not trying to scare you. It sounds like you caught it very early. If you want to talk more go to breastcancer.org and look for bonnienclyde there. Type in my name under the search, click on bonnienclyde and send me a personal PM. This is also a wonderful site for breast cancer information. You will be in my thoughts.

[boninclyde]

I am so sorry you are having to go through this. It will be a very scary journey but you can do this. I had what they thought was DCIS but after a right masectomy (August 25th) they found invasive cancer. Lots of women have this to happen to them and were glad they had masectomies because otherwise it would not have been found because of their very  dense breast. Not trying to scare you. It sounds like you caught it very early. If you want to talk more go to breastcancer.org and look for bonnienclyde there. Type in my name under the search, click on bonnienclyde and send me a personal PM. This is also a wonderful site for breast cancer information. You will be in my thoughts.

[Montana girl 06]

After reading posts at this sight for several months, I think that I would chosen a masectomy in your situation, too. Wondering if cancer will be found again, and just not knowing is so difficult. Of course, a masectomy is not easy, either, but hopefully it will give you the reassurance you are looking for. Yes, I will continue to keep you in my prayers.

[snoopy55]

Well, another sentence of waiting!  The waiting is what is so bad...so drawn out.  I went to my surgeon this am.  He called and got me in with a plastic surgeon.  I went over there and consulted with him.  Now I have to go back to my surgeon's office next Tuesday afternoon and then back over to the plastic surgeon's office.  But I will be seeing the person who sets up the surgeries that day also.  So hopefully this will be over in a couple of weeks.  It makes you just want it to END!  My emotions have been a yo yo.  My husbands' job sent him out of town this morning so I went it alone.  I had a couple of friends who offered to go but I told them the Lord was with me and I would be fine.  And I was, except when I got home...I kind of went down.  I have to decide between now and next Tuesday whether I want the Tran Flap or the implant.  This will be done at the same time as my surgery.  So if I do the tran flap this part of the surgery will last 4-6 hrs.  However, if I do the implant, they will put in the extender with saline solution and I will have to have them keep adding the solution every so many days, then will have to go back and have more outpatient surgery...so I think I would rather do the Tran flap and be done with it.
Just keep uplifting us in your prayers.  It's really like it is a nightmare, happening to somebody else other that you.  I also stay so sleepy.  When I stress out that is what happens, I just want to sleep.  That's the way I was when my mother was dying.  I just wanted to sleep all the time.
Thanks for your support.

[Montana girl 06]

It sounds like a lot of information and big decisions to make in a short amount of time. But, I'm sure you want to just get it done at this point and move on. What would we do without the foundation of our faith in God and prayers of our friends?

[suzi-q]

I am so sorry about your news.  I definitely agree with the mastectomy.  Get rid of it for good.  May God bless you.

[brada]

A related discussion, scared-have to have another biopsy was started.

[kim46]

A related discussion, confused was started.