Lost perspective

[glose]

I would like your opinion about a post biopsy mammogram. In December 03, I had a wire localization biopsy in the OR to remove calcifications in my right breast. The biopsy was completely benign and no high risk tissue. Previous to that I had two stereotactic biopsies, which were also benign but they kept missing the calcifications. I am scheduled for a baseline mammogram after all these procedures in July.

I think because this all took three months to get this figured out, I have internalized this situation or something. It seems I think of this on an almost constant basis. I am worried to death about my upcoming mammogram. My question to you is just about the likelihood of a problem this soon after a benign biopsy. Obviously, you can't tell me if I will get breast cancer, but I am just looking for a bit of information about why baselines are done, etc. I am also worried about scarring from the biopsy.

My next appointment with my GP I am going to ask her if she thinks I need help getting this all in perspective. I do have the risk factor of a sister (premenopausal) and a mother (postmenopausal) who did get breast cancer. Because I had calcifications that were benign, I seem to be running with that information and putting myself at even higher risk than I already am.

Thank you for your time. I feel bad posting this as I see people that have actually been diagnosed and are dealing with that. I pray for these people every day. Any insight would be appreciated.

[dammie]

Dear glose,  don't feel bad about posting.  We are all here to learn as much about this disease as we can.  Your family history gives you a deserved cause for concern.  I, too, have a strong pre-meno family history as well as in the process of bilateral reconstruction for pre-meno bc myself.  My prayers are with you.  Stay on top of your own healthcare.

Dear rkmslm,  your comments about genetic testing are important.  Has your doctor ever discussed with you the possibility of an oopherectomy due to your BRCA1 status?  I am scheduled to have one on Monday along with the reconstruction due to my history.  It is worth asking your doctor.  Good luck to you and God bless.

[glose]

I have inquired about genetic testing both with my family doctor and Surgeon who performed the localization. They do not seem to be recommending that. However, if I continue to worry in the future, I may push for that.

[rkmsim]

Have you considered genetic testing with your family history?  Perhaps that would help you make any decisions you may be considering.  My mom and I both have had bc.  I was tested in January and found out I am BRCA1+.  As a result, my daughter is going to be tested this summer and will probably have a PM if she tests positive as well.  I am planning on a BM with DIEP reconstruction later this year now that I know I am at high risk for a 3rd bc.  The point I am making is that with family history, such as you have, genetic testing make help in the decision making process.  Knowledge is power in this situation.

[ALi273]

I too am in a similar situation with a strong family history of premenopausal BC and multiple benign biopsies and excisions.   I also worry each time I go but currently I am being followed closely by a Medical Oncologist and a Breast Oncology Surgeon.  I go back in 4 months for a repeat MRI and hope that things will be without change.  About a month ago I started taking tamoxifen.  I was very hesitant, but after too many scares it was the right thing for me.  I have had very few side effects and feel it was a good decision. Lots of luck to you!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear glose:  Your question is perfectly relevant, so I'm glad you posted.  The reason to do baseline mammograms after a procedure is to get an idea of how the anatomy of the breast looks.  This way, there will be something to compare future mammograms to.  The likelihood of another problem this soon is small.  You may also consider speaking with a genetics counselor who can better determine your specific risk.  Genetic testing may be a possibility.  Once you have all the facts, it's never a bad idea to speak with a counselor of some type to help you cope with the anxiety.