I,m freaking out- cluster microcalcifications

[pattysb]

I,m freaking out!  47yr, had routine mammo  on Thur, they wanted a redo,  ended up doing redo mammo and ultrasound following Wed which showed calcifications in my left breast....I cant explain how weird the vibe was from staff and radiologist....they are going to schedule me for biopsy next week.  I was able to glance at ultrasound screen while in there and did see an area about the size of a quarter with lots of small spots...Is this group considered 1 cluster?  Or is each individual spot a cluster?  How often is a cluster like this benign?  If benign, what do they usually do?  If malignant, what would be standart treatment?  Any information would be greatly appreaciated.  I  am a single mom, with no living family, my mom passed away several years ago from ovarian at 67,  and brother passed from leukemia at 36.  Thank you!!!


This discussion is related to Microcalcification.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
It would be hard to tell exactly based on your description whether the small spots you saw in the ultrasound screen are calcifications or not.
Calcifications seen during ultrasound or mammogram may be benign or malignant.  That is the reason why a biopsy is recommended after a finding of any calcifications.  Most malignant calcifications are ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).  It is managed by excision (lumpectomy or breast conserving surgery) plus radiotherapy, excision alone, or mastectomy.
Benign calcifications are managed conservatively, with a repeat mammogram or ultrasound several months after.  
I agree with doing a biopsy to establish whether the calcifications are benign or malignant.    
Take care.

[jazzie34]

i'am having the same problems, i want to give you this great website that i happened to find. if you go into it - look for me jazzie34

here is the site. so many woman to talk to in there,

http://community.breastcancer.org/

[lizzie545]

I am going through a very similiar thing.  I am 46 and have microcalcifications and have to repeat my mam in 4 months.  Be hopeful