Help

Hi,

Im new to this forum and have no Formal dx as of yet.  What I do have is a BIRAD of 0 mamorgam in 2002, a BIRAD of 2 in 2008 and last week 2010. Had an abnormal mamo, then a diagnostic mamo, abnormal, US- confirmed 4x6x8 solid mass, my BIRAD now is a 4 states"suspicious Abnormality"  I see a BC tomorrow afternoon to go over records, What kind of Biopsy is the most accurate Core Needle??? Should I be testing lymph nodes as well at this time???? I menpausal and am on HRT, should I stop taking it or wait for the MD to give his advice???

Norine

[japdip]

First of all I'm quite surprised that you are on HRT as it is rarely prescribed these days since it has been proven to increase the incidence of Breast Cancer. Of course it would depend on how long you've been on it and also what dosage but I certainly wouldn't advise HRT under most circumstances. You should be sure to inform the Breast Specialist / Surgeon that you are on HRT though.
Now to your initial questions ... the type of biopsy will be determined by the Breast Surgeon OR the Radiologist and it will depend on the location and nature of the area being biopsied. The testing of lymph nodes will also be at the discretion of whomever is doing the biopsy but I would think not at this time; probably if further surgery is required there will be some type of sampling done. By the way the BIRAD 0 in 2002 meant that there was not enough information available and additional testing was necessary at that time to arrive at any conclusion.  Regards .....

[nalecuyer]

Hi
thank you for your response, Im still learning to navigate through this system.  I am not sure what area you are from but HRT is still quite common as a relief of menopausal symptoms and I have them very bad.. I am on the lowest dose.  There are positive effects of HRT.. I have the beginning of osteoporosis and HRT helps with bones.. I had my CNB yesterday and it went fairly smooth.  I now just hope and pray for benign results... I did ask about the HRT and everyone said "no" wait and see results of biopsy... it may not even be e+ or p+ in which case other tests are done... Im researching, but may have not need to.. Thank you far listening and your help
Norine

[Ma111]

The ultrasound you already had looked at the nodes. They will probably do a sentinal node bx at the same time as whtever other surgery id decided on.
My cancer was er and pr- and I am asking for HRT. There is even a study going on that they are trying to convert er- to + because it is easier to treat, just follow thier recomendation on that issue. As you journey along you will find a lot of controvery and it sounds like you are doing some good research to base you desicions on, I like that.
www.nccn.org
www.guidelines.gov
breastcancertreatmentcoach.com
clinicaltrials.gov
www.cancer.gov
pubmed