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Mamogram Negative/MRI Shows Lump

Last week I had a routine mammogram/MRI due to a strong family history of breast cancer. Was called yesterday and requested to return today for an ultraound "in order for the radiologist to complete her report." When I arrived, they disclosed that the mammogram was negative - however, the MRI showed a lump left breast. It is non-palpable on the medial side of the breat close to the rib cage. The ultrasound showed nothing. Given two options. #1 have a biopsy with an MRI or wait 6 months and repeat the MRI. Have chosen to get the biopsy. What are the statistics on breast MRI? If nothing shows on mammo/ultrasound but MRI, which do you trust?

Like previously stated, strong family history so will definitely get the biopsy but just curious on the above questions.
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Avatar universal
My mom and maternal aunt have/had breast cancer. My father died of prostate cancer at age 59 (diagnosed at 58). I have a sister, but we have different mothers. On my mother's side there are not many relatives to track because in the early 1900s my grandmother was part of the genocide in Armenia/Turkey and only her, her mother, and cousin survived. They have estimated my lifetime risk at 25%.

From my understanding, the MRI is the best tool for the earliest detection out of the 3 (MRI/mammo/us). I called my OB/GYN's office yesterday and he is going to give me a call - however, with Thanksgiving the nurse had indicated that if I didn't hear from him yesterday I would definitely hear from him on Monday. The Dr. I see has ~800 patients. 500 have/had cancer (breast/ovary/etc.) and the other 300 are high risk of have a strong family history. I do not have a good relationship with my mother and because her insurance will not covering her genetic testing, she refuses at this point (she is extremely selfish but this is a long story). So, I was offered testing, however, with my father deceased he is unable to get tested so for now I have opted to get screened (mammo/MRI every year; clinical breast exam every 6 months).

According to the nurse at my doctor's office, both the radiologist and my doctor strongly recommend that I get the biopsy. To me that is a no brainer, just hoping that they can get me in sooner than later, which hopefully my doctor can assist on the sooner than later. The mass is 4x6x5 mm and is on the left breast, medial side half way up. It is not palpable, which is why it could take up to 6 weeks to get the biopsy since they will need an MR to guide it.

Thank you Kathy and Kris for your thoughts and prayers. At this point, I would just like to know so I can move forward.

Happy Thanksgiving to the both of you.
Helpful - 0
695036 tn?1228405969
I wanted to wish you the best. Please keep us in mind and let us know. How strong is your history? Just curious......I don't understand the mammogram was neg, yet there was a lump. hmmm, just me. postivie for a lump, yet negative. weird. My Mom had BR CA at 39 . I'm scared of cancer. I have a pretty tender area on my breast I noticed the other day....and I'm concerned, but they say not to worry as painful areas are not to be too concerned about. I'm gonna wait a bit and see what happens. I wish I knew what kinfd of cancer my aunt had, I have a non speaking family! I need to know, it was my mom's sister for the Love of God. I hope you are alright. I'll pray for you,.

Kris
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I was in the same boat as you.... mine was not detected by mammogram or ultrasound, and not palpable.   I ended up having cancer & am near the end of chemo.   I will have to do an MRI every year from now on.  It was caught SO early this way that my prognosis is great.   I thought the MRI biopsy was much less painful than the other one... don't have to get squished!!!  Good luck!
Helpful - 0
526906 tn?1261871796
Hi cc,

It is my understanding that out of mammogram, ultrasound and MRI, that MRI is the most accurate diagnostic test of the three.  I'm glad you are going ahead with the biopsy -- I know it's nothing that anyone would volunteer for, but knowledge is power, regardless of the outcome!  

Let us know how things work out.  We're here as a community to help, either with information, and ear to listen, or a shoulder to lean on.

Warmly,

Chris
Healingwell62
Breast Cancer Community Leader
Helpful - 0
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