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Dense breast with benign nodule
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Dense breast with benign nodule

The nurse at my doctor's office called today to tell me I have a benign nodule in my right breast. She also said my breasts are dense. This is after three mammograms (two diagnostic and one screening). They tell me i dont need to come back for six months for another diagnotic mammogram.  I did not get to talk with the doctor and am a little lost and confused about what this really means. The other online posts I've been reading makes me wander if i shouldnt get a second opinion and additional tests such as a ultrasound or a 3D imaging. I am 41 yo, overweight, no family history of breast cancer and I have hypothyroidism. No other health issues.

Should I request an ultrasound or a second opinion? I've never questioned my doctor's before and not sure how to do this without sound disrespectful
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2 Comments
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587083_tn?1327123862
Hi,
Radiologists are quite able to distinguish suspicious lumps from benign ones.
Usually benign looking findings are followed to make sure that no changes have occurred.
If the nodule in your breast was suspicious in any way,rest assured that a biopsy would have been recommended by the radiologist.
Do you know what is your BI-RADS score?  
BI-RADS is a quality control system,used by radiologists after interpreting mammograms,ultrasound and MRIs.
This system allows radiologist to categorize the findings by numbers.The scores go from 1 to 5.The higher the number the more suspicious is the abnormality.It's important to know your score so you and your doctor can discuss if more investigation is needed.
Having additional tests so soon,would not be useful since it would yield  the same results.
Of course,if you are still worried,a second opinion would be an option.You could take your films to a different radiologist and see what is he/she recommends.
Best wishes...
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2031914_tn?1331690214
My advice would be to get copies of your radiologist reports from your doctor. With dense breasts you may want to ask for an ultrasound or MRI if you haven't already had one and have concerns. Also there is a website you can check out called areyoudense.org.
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