Calcifications and lumps benign condition?

[Montana girl 06]

I had a stereotactic for calcifications in 1/06. At 6 month follow-up radiologist #1 recommended a stereotactic for new pleomorphic clusters of calcifications. Surgeon agreed I could wait 3 months for a follow-up mammogram instead of biopsy. Radiologist #2 read 3 month follow-up mammo and there was very little change; again recommended a stereotactic. On biopsy day Radiologist #3 said he found the clusters to be similar and due to benign condition, not pleomorphic as Radiologist #1 stated,probably caused by biopsy in Jan. I  have possible fibroadenomas of similar form in same quadrant.Radiologist #3,surgeon and I decided not to do the stereotactic but follow-up in 6 months.Most of breast would have to be removed to take out all “suspicious” areas plus margins so surgeons are not jumping at excisional biopsy
1)Is it true breast cancer does not initially appear in several areas of the breast at once but rather in just 1 spot? 2) When SIMILAR clusters of calcifications appear at once are they considered likely benign?
3)When similarly formed lumps (possible fibroadenomas) appear at once are they considered less likely to be cancerous than if only one lump appeared?
4)Can new clusters of calcifications be caused by a previous biopsy? My new calcifications are not located bythe marker from previous biopsy but are in same quadrant.
5)Does my combination of similar clusters of calcifications PLUS similar lumps appearing in 6 months in same quadrant as biopsies sound like a benign condition, or do these calcifications plus lumps indicate greater suspicion for cancer?Thank you

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Montana girl 06:  While most breast cancer appears as one "focus" in the breast, it is possible for breast cancer to present as multifocal disease.  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, is usually recommended.  Simultaneous appearance of clusters would not influence the interpretation based on the appearance.  The characteristics of lumps are generally more important than the timing of their appearance.  Depending on the situation (age, risk factors, etc.), sometimes "fibroadenmomas" are removed to be certain that they are fibroadenomas.  Without evaluation, including review of the films and examination, we cannot speculate on interpretation of your situation.  Whether to biopsy or not is a judgement call by the radiologist and surgeon.  If you are uncomfortable with the information you are receiving, you can consider a second opinion.

[boninclyde]

It went to breastcancer.org and posted on two different discussion boards there if you would like to read what they have to say. I am sure the doctor here will help also. It will probaly be the same generic answer.I don't know if they answer on weekends. Here is how to get there. Hope this helps.

breastcancer.org
under support and community click on discussion boards
then main forum index
scroll down to Help me get through treatment, click there
see my post under bonnienclyde or you can post your on questions

If you scroll down on the main forum index again to Research News and Discussion I also posted same question there.

Again hope this helps.

[Bunny711]

I jusg want to commend you, I see through all these threads you have helped so many women.  You are one of the angels on here......

[Bunny711]

I jusg want to commend you, I see through all these threads you have helped so many women.  You are one of the angels on here......

[vermontgirlII]

Hello ladies,

This is the first posting I have made on this site.  I have been reading all your posts for a few days, and I admire all of you... your courage.  I was told a few days ago that I have an area w/ microcalcifications and after a diagnostic mammo, I need a stereotactic biopsy.  After numerous phone calls I still haven't been able to even find out what info my primary doc needs to schedule the appt.  Very frustrating, and I feel invisible.  Anyhow, the radiologist who read the diagnostic mammo said I had the option of having an excisional biop or the stereotactic.  He said that pathologists like as much tissue as they can get.  Well, it's not their body, and at this point, I definitely feel that a core needle biop is the way to go.  However, it is really scary, the waiting, not knowing.  I think I am doing OK, but just the weirdest things will set off the tears.  I woke up in the middle of the night a couple days ago from a nightmare in which I was on the table having the biopsy, and I was covered with sweat and feeling like I was going to throw up.  I guess my stress over this is a little deeper than what I thought.   I just wanted to say that reading all of your posts: your insights and experiences, have helped me feel grounded.

[Montana girl 06]

I agree that upcoming biopsies and waiting for results stress us in ways we don't even realize. I've had both types of biopsies and neither was too bad. It's the stress over the results that's the worst. I guess the advantage of an excisional is that they hopefully get all the tissue so they don't have to go back in. I didn't have a very large area removed and the scar was only 1 inch. It healed well. Stereotactics are definately less invasive. Have you already decided or are you meeting with a surgeon to discuss these options?

[vermontgirlII]

I haven't been given the option to discuss anything with anyone yet.  My diagnostic mammo was last Tuesday, election day, and I still don't know even where I am going for the biopsy.  I have made several panicked phone calls, with no results.  Tomorrow I will start with the calls again.  I just can't believe that all these women who are working in the physicians offices are so insensitive to the fact that when you get this news, you freak out a little, or a lot.  

Another question for anyone... since the diagnostic mammogram, I have had a lot of soreness in that breast, especially the nipple.  They really used a lot of compression, so much that I had redness for about 12 hours.  Is this common?  I still can't touch that nipple, and it's been 6 days.  Thanks.

[boninclyde]

It is common to have soreness after a mamogram (mammogram). Stay on top of the doctors. Make them get you in with the best center. Call around yourself and ask questions. You will soon find out who is best qualified in your town. Call your insurance also. Please let us know. We can only help other women if we share our on experiences.

[sue-aloo]

I totally understand your panic....you just want it done already and rightfully so.  I hate when we are treated like numbers....I would just like to add my 2 cents:  A few years ago I first went for the needle biopsy for pleomorphic microcalcifications ..results were benign but they weren't able to get the amount of tissue they wanted, so then I had to go for the surgery to finish removing the area.  My opinion (and it is only an opinion) from now on, if the situation arises, I will go straight for the surgery.  It would have saved me time and a lot of needless worry.....Hope this helps.  BEST TO YOU!

[japdip]

Only a biopsy can answer your questions as to whether the clusters of microcalcifications and/or lumps are benign ..... I would have no problem with waiting BUT I would definitely opt for the biopsy.    Good Luck

[bat42563]

Hi .  I had a mammagram on Oct 31.  I had to wait until Nov 6 to get the results from my dr., and I wouldnt have gotten them then Had I not called the hospital and had them fax the results to my dr.  Any way.  It show calcifications in both breasts with a nodular density in the right breast.  My dr. told me that this was nothing really to worry about.  I told him I wanted more tests, and he told me to go to the womens pavillion and have another mammogram.  I had a digital mammogram done. It showed clusters of calcifications in both breasts.  Pathologist told me she was more worried about the left breast, because the calcifications were clustered so tightly together.  Well I have to wait till Nov 20 to have a bilateral stereotactic biopsy.  To me this seems like a very long time to have to wait.  I am literally driving myself crazy waiting and worrying.  Am I making to big of a deal out of this.  I am 43 years old.  No family history of breast cancer.  

Anxiously awaiting a reply.

[ARCMURD]

I know it is nerve wracking waiting for your biopsy, then waiting for the results.  You'll feel more in control once you know what you are dealing with.  That being said, most biopsies for calcifications are benign.  There can be other reasons for clustered microcalicifications, but DCIS, or pre-cancer is a concern, too.  Even if it turns out to be something, you've caught it early on.  

I totally understand what you are going through.  I found out 11/1 that my last mammo (a digital mammo, taken on 10/20) showed a new cluster of microcalcifications.  I have my sterostatic biopsy tomorrow.  I'm not sure how long it will take to get the results back.  I had to wait almost 2 weeks from hearing about the resutls of my mammo to get in to have the biopsy.  So waiting until 11/20 is not really that bad.  If they were really concerned that it was something that needed to be biopsied immediately, you'd be in the next day.  

I know it is hard to wait.  I will be thinking of you and hoping for the best.

Donna

[bat42563]

Thankyou for your response.  It helps talking with someone who understands what you are going through.  I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers that your biopsy goes well tommorrow.

Michelle

[Montana girl 06]

Arcmurd - I hope all goes well with your biopsy tomorrow and that your results come quickly. I will keep you in my prayers.

bat - yes, waiting is the hardest. If it turns out cancerous (remember the odds are in your favor that it will be BENIGN) calcification biopsies typically find a very early cancer or precancer. I know it's impossible not to worry...but I've always had to wait several weeks for my biopsies and there won't be much change in that amount of time. I'll keep you in my prayers also.

[vermontgirlII]

I got a call from the Breast Care Center yesterday, and the woman there contacted my physician to get my mammo report, and asked me a bunch of questions about family history etc., and told me exactly what I had to do to get the films sent up, and said that next Monday AM the radiologist and surgeon will look at my films, reports, etc. and then they will call me Monday afternoon with the schedule for the biop appt.  I felt better after that.  I also contacted the medical records dept. of my hospital and have requested that they be sent to me.  Now, I have a question.  Because I won't understand anything that I read in the report, do you have a resource to translate the medical terms into something I can understand?

Thanks for your help.

[boninclyde]

We are not doctors  but we have some knowledge as to what they may mean. Share them with us when you get them and if we can help we will. You can also post the doctor here but they don't like to speculate because the cannot see the information for themselves.

[boninclyde]

Where are you now? Were you going to question your radiologist and your surgeon? Have you decided to monitor the areas? Hope I did not confused you more.

[bat42563]

Hi.  I was concerned about how you did today with your biopsy.  Did they let you know anything today, or will it take several days.  I heard that it usually does.  I pray all is well.

Thinking of ya
Michelle

[ARCMURD]

Hi Michelle:

Thank you for asking.  The biopsy itself went well and wasn't nearly as bad as I anticipated.  As far as pain, I didn't really experience any.

The radiologist that did the biopsy showed me the microcals on the mammogram film.  I have 6, loosely clustered.  I had an ultrasound beforehand and the radiologist told me they didn't find a mass.  The doctor said that my microcals "looked" benign, but that at the same time, they are "on the border," and they really didn't know for sure.  He assured me that if it were something, that is was caught very early.  He also said that 2/3 of these biopsies are benign.

So I won't know anything official for 3-5 more days (business days).  I feel much better now that the biopsy is done, and feel that I am ready for the diagnosis, whatever it might be.

Thank you, again, for asking.  

Donna

[bat42563]

Hi.  I went to "steriotactic biopsy of bilateral breasts", and there is a glossary of cancer related terms and definitions on there that might help you.  It is # 26.  Goodluck to you.

Michelle

[Montana girl 06]

I read a number of posts at breastcancer.org and still feel comfortable waiting 6 months. (Altho I realize I way oversimplified the part about multiple cancers in the breast. I blame that on my simple mind, not on the radiologist.) I still feel my new calcifications could easily have been caused by my last biopsy. I also read that each biopsy "clouds" the area and makes future diagnosis even more difficult and that unnecessary biopsies should be avoided. I've had 3 biopsies in that quadrant and it's already VERY cloudy and difficult to read. I have so much scar tissue I can't distinguish lumps from scar tissue. I also feel much better about the fibroadenomas after reading other posts indicating in some cases (like mine) it can be better to leave them alone and monitor them.  I would still recommend other women get the biopsy! I feel my case is an oddball one and I do not want my decision to make other women think they don't need a biopsy. I'm sure I haven't had my last biopsy either...but for now I'll go with 6 month monitoring.

[boninclyde]

Sounds great. You have to do what is right for you. I will soon have a mamo on my left breast to see what may be lingering there. They found a tiny spot on my mamo when they found cancer in my right breast but wanted to watch it also for 3 months. So my 3 month wait is almost up to see what may be going on there. Don't have the appointment yet. I'll probaly wait till after my meeting with my surgeon to discuss ovarian ambulation, hysterectomy or the Oophorectomy on the 22nd. This all stinks. Take care.

[ConnecticutGal]

Hello:

MontanaGirl and VermontGirl, I feel for what you are going through and will send my prayers your way.  

I am new to the forum (41, Connecticut, married, 2 boys 15 and 10, full-time legal assistant) and have been reading through the posts on this Board for the last 3 days. I come here with tears in my eyes reading and feeling for what people are going through.  Those who are patiently waiting for the testing, those who are currently going through the disease, those who have survived the disease, those who are going through the aftermath of regaining their lives.  

I want all of you to know how wonderful you are answering questions and giving so generously of yourselves and your own stories have been a source of inspiration and hope, lifting our spirits and helping to alleviate our fears.

On 11/7, I had my mammogram (last mammogram was March 2004).  I received a phone call on 11/13 from Radiology saying that they found a dense mass in my left breast (I have saline breast implants since June 1999).  They have scheduled me for an Ultrasound 3 weeks from now and they cannot get me in any sooner.  The anxiety is so bad, I can't eat, sleep or focus at work.  I have not told my parents or my best friends.  I don't want to get everyone worried at this point and don't want a lot of drama.  I called Radiology today to see if there were any cancellations to squeeze me in, but no cancellations and they don't do waiting lists.  My husband is so upset that we have to wait weeks, that he scheduled an appointment for in New York City tomorrow 11/16 for an Ultrasound (and Biopsy if needed).  I am picking up the paperwork today from the Radiologists to bring with me since I haven't seen it myself as of yet.

Although my grandmother had breast cancer at age 78 (and spread throughout her body quickly, not sure if it started in the breast or other area, by the time they detected it was too far gone and she died 3 months after it be detected.)  There is no one else in my family that has had cancer.

I apologize if I am rambling, but there are so many thoughts racing through my head and I am trying not to think the worst, but at the same time, I am one of those people who likes to be in control and wants to be prepared for the worst possible outcome.  

Thanks for listening.  :)

[vermontgirlII]

Hi,  It is torture waiting, but hooray for your husband.  I really commend him for taking action on your behalf.  Arm yourself with information and have questions for the physicians.  And remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question if you don't know the answer.  And think, if it was your friend or daughter who was going through this, would you want them to bear the fear of the unknown themselves, or would you want to offer an ear or a hug for support.  I have told people who I trust to be discreet that I need to have a biopsy, and their support and concern has helped tremendously.

Good luck

[vermontgirlII]

I got my dx mammo report, and some of the stuff it says is: Birad 4, some heterogeneous calcifications, some scattered benign (OK good) calcifications and some rounded calcifications.  Sounds like there's a freaking party going on in there!  And no associated suspicious mass lesion.  Nor is there any architectural distortion.  ??  Worrysome for malignancy.

Bat42563, I can't find the web page you wrote about, or maybe it is a posting, for "stereotactic breast biopsy"

Thanks

[laure113]

I have to agree with vermontgirl about your husband and keeping everything to your self. When I found out I needed a biopsy, I didn't tell my son and it was so hard keeping it from him. I finally told him before the procedure. I also told trusted friends. It's hard to do this on your own. I'm glad you found this site. It has been such a great help. I also find it helpful praying for others. It helps me get out of myself. The waiting is still hard. I have 3 weeks to go for my 2nd biopsy. I was prepared for the worst but all was okay. I also think it's hard to be positive when you are facing the unknown. I understand that! I'll keep you and your husband in my prayers. Let us know how your appointment goes.

[Bunny711]

Hi:

I did the same thing, I went to NYC, and didn't wait, my doctor didn't calll me for about 4 days, when I already met with a suregeon and made my biopsy appointment.  Again, you have to be your own advocate.

Your reports sound like they may be fine.  If you read about scattered calcs are benign.  I believe from what some friends say that have implant, its one of the side effects.

You are going to be fine too.  We are all praying!!

[boninclyde]

You can go to the top of this page to search and type in stereiotactic biopsy. Another good site is breastcancer.org. Lot of goo info there and the discussion boards are great. Many ladies there can give you great advice.

[Bunny711]

Hi:

You are in a similiar mode as me, had my biopsy Monday, and have to wait a few days.

However, my cluster too was a bit scattered, but it was a cluster.

It is a relief when that part is done, and then the waiting.

Please keep us posted.

[ARCMURD]

The waiting is hard, but I found that the waiting for the biopsy was more anxiety-provoking for me.  Of course I'd love to get benign results, who wouldn't!  But I'm prepared whatever the dx, and having the sterotactic biopsy behind me makes me feel like I'm in control again and on the road to whatever.

Anyway, I got the stomach flu today (kids brought it home from school).  So I can't think of much other than holding food down.  I'm SO GLAD I wasn't sick during my bx yesterday - that would have been awful.  So sometimes things work out the right way.

Donna

[ARCMURD]

CGal:

I had something similar happen to me about 3 years ago. They found a mass on my mammogram and  I had to go back for a diagnositic mammo and an ultrasound, then consult with a breast surgeon.  The tests showed that it was a cyst  and everything turned out okay.  My maternal grandmother got breast cancer, too, and died from it (mainly from lack of treatment, it WAS treatable and not aggressive, but that is another story!)

I remember that time being extremely stressful (like what I am going through now).  It was almost surreal.  Everyone is different regarding who they tell and how much they talk about it.  Personally, I find talking about it makes it less scary, but some women don't like to talk about it.  That's what makes this forum so nice - you can "talk" about it but remain anonymous.  

Your husband is a gem for taking things into his own hands and scheduling the US and possible bx for you.  My H took things into his own hands, too, recently, when I was scared about my BIRAD 4 mammo and recommended bx.  He called and made the appointment for me.  It is nice to know that husbands love us so much at times like this.

Take care and hoping for the best for you.

Donna

[Montana girl 06]

There are so many of you waiting for biopsies and results that I can't post you all individually. But, I think of you often and pray for you. Let us know how things go.

[Bunny711]

I too agree, I was more anxioux about the biopsy then waiting to hear the results. You are ver strong beautiful woman...you are so right what will be will be and we can deal with it....

Everyone is in my prayers.

Montana Girl:  Thank you....

[Bunny711]

Ladies:

I just received my results...benign, I want to thank everyone for being so wonderful, I will be on this forum continually, it has changed my life and helped me through this ordeal...

GOD BLESS US BEAUTIFUL STRONG WOMEN!!!!

[Ladymusical]

Hell'o All:
I met with my surgeon on 11/9.  I got a copy of my mammography. He pointed out to me that it stated "geographic area of multiple calcifications laterally in right breast." He did indicate that geographic is better than cluster, however he did say he has been wrong before. The earliest I could have the biopsy done was on the 22nd and we were going to be on the road for Thanksgiving so I will be having the stereotactic on the 27th. Today, I shared with my mom and one of my dear friends that is a nurse at the hospital where I will be having the procedure done, that I am having a biopsy.  I have not really wanted to talk to anyone about it other than my husband. I really did not want to give the situation any life.
Sometimes I am really up and if I am alone-it can be very scarey.  The unknown and all. I haven't said anything to my children. Ages 18 and 15. I figure I will decide after the biopsy.
I just wanted to say hell'o.  I think of you all and pray for you.  This forum has been such a help for me.  I kind of drop in and out of threads, as I will join one and the thread will close. Regarding husbands, my has been great and has done his best to let me show and share my fear and he has been extremely supportive. He truly is a great guy.
God Bless and thank you for letting me vent.

[ARCMURD]

Thank you so much, bunny.  I got good news today, too.  My biopsy was benign!  I have such a newfound respect for all women who go through this ordeal, whether their results are b-9 or otherwise.  

Donna

[laure113]

What fantastic news!
You, too Arcmurd! Thanks for sharing this with us. I'm very happy for both of you.

[laure113]

I understand about the ups and downs. I have been trying very hard to focus on the good and knowing the odds are in our favor. This is my second biopsy in 2 months. The biopsy, itself, wasn't bad, it was the waiting. I'm happy you have the suppport of your husband and mother. It is so important to be able to share your feelings and venting is more than allowed. God bless you.

[bat42563]

Hi Donna.  
That is fantastic news.   Enjoy your Thanksgiving with your family.  
And thankyou again for your comforting words.  This is the best site.

[sue-aloo]

Congratulations Bunny!  I am soooo happy for you.  I had my mammogram on Tuesday, now the waiting begins for results.  I am so happy for all those getting benign results....I pray for patience and strength for all who are waiting! (including me!)

[ARCMURD]

You, and everyone else going through a biopsy and waiting for results, are in my prayers every night.  

Donna

[purplefox]

A related discussion, Do I HAVE TO be awake during the biopsy?? was started.