Is Biopsy the same as Removal for Microcalcifications?

[notmyturn]

Diagnostic mammogram states Calcifications with extensive involvement in the upper-outer quadrant superior aspect of the right breast which are indeterminant.  The calcifications are defined as extensive faint pleomorphic punctate and linear.  Bi-Rads cagegory 4 suspicious abnormality biopsy should be considered.  A comment added that if I could obtain prior mammograms it might change the Birad category and eliminate the need for further workup.  I supplied the old films and the addendum reports states that there appears to be an interval change with the development of the calcifications that were previously annotated and recommended for removal.  My question is, was the Biopsy recommendation at 1st reading the same as the removal recommendation on the ammended reading or is the radiologist more concerned at this point?  I see a surgeon tomorrow.

[notmyturn]

just to close the thread and to give hope to others----

Failed stereotactic biopsy due to proximity of calc to chest wall.  Had a wire guided biopsy on 2/22 and received B9 results today!!!  I was SO sure there would be a cancer diagnosis and now, what a relief.  I am so tired and feel I'll sleep well, finally after 2 months of worry!

[suzi-q]

keep us posted.  we are rooting for you!

[notmyturn]

Thanks ladies!

Saw the surgeon who referred me to the radiologist for steriotactical biopsy.  Now a wait again for insurance approval and scheduling.......................

[Montana girl 06]

The type of biopsy often determines whether or not the calcifications are completely removed. That decision is usually left up to the surgeon and you, so I would rely more on what the surgeon says on that point. Stereotactic biopsies sometimes remove all of the calcifications, but often remove only part. Sometimes they prefer to do a surgical biopsy so that they can remove the calcifications completely. This is more invasive proceedure but gives more definite answers. I hope all goes well for you. Keep us posted.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear notmyturn:  From what you have provided, it appears that the calcifications have changed from the first mammogram to the current one.  Based on this, the radiologist is recommending  further evaluation in the form of an excisional biopsy.  Your surgeon should be able to clarify this better for you.

[japdip]

Could be just a difference in terms used by two different Radiologists. Biopsy isn't removal .... but a sampling of the tissue in the area of concern. It is usually stated that up to 50% of BIRAD 4 categories are something other than a malignancy.