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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Mammogram results
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Mammogram results
by worriedinsa, Feb 09, 2006 12:00AM
I have read articles on Microcalcifications & Fibroadenoma individually, & what the possible treatment options are for each condition. However in my mammogram results, I was informed I have microcalcifications in cluters very sml, with a Fibroadenoma, & determined as benign, what are your thoughts on my combination? I have been referred to a Surgeon for follow up. My gut instinct is telling me to just get them out. Thank you for your time.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-rf, Feb 10, 2006 12:00AM
Dear worriedinsa: Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue and these occur normally. There are different types of microcalcifications, and based on their pattern on the mammogram it gives the radiologist clues as to their cause. For instance, microcalcifications that are more scattered are probably due to a benign (non-cancerous) cause, a "cluster" of microcalcifications may increase concern that there may be an underlying abnormality. This could be many things but generally requires further investigation. Most of the time, these turn out to be benign.
Fibroadenomas are non-malignant (benign) lumps that feel smooth, and round. They can vary from very small to quite large (5cm). Fibroadenomas are usually distinct on a mammogram and ultrasound. Most believe that they grow over a 12 month period and then remain stable. They are most common in women in their teens and early 20's but can happen at any age - although they usually don't occur much after menopause (hormone therapy tricks your body into believing it is premenopausal). Fibroadenomas have even been found in women in their 60's and 70's. If the size is stable and the fibroadenoma is not bothering the woman - there may be no reason to remove it.
Without reviewing your mammogram etc. it is impossible to speculate on the significance of both issues, their relationship and the appropriate intervention. The consultation with the breast surgeon may be the best approach to determining recommendations for further evaluation and treatment, if necessary.
Fibroadenomas are non-malignant (benign) lumps that feel smooth, and round. They can vary from very small to quite large (5cm). Fibroadenomas are usually distinct on a mammogram and ultrasound. Most believe that they grow over a 12 month period and then remain stable. They are most common in women in their teens and early 20's but can happen at any age - although they usually don't occur much after menopause (hormone therapy tricks your body into believing it is premenopausal). Fibroadenomas have even been found in women in their 60's and 70's. If the size is stable and the fibroadenoma is not bothering the woman - there may be no reason to remove it.
Without reviewing your mammogram etc. it is impossible to speculate on the significance of both issues, their relationship and the appropriate intervention. The consultation with the breast surgeon may be the best approach to determining recommendations for further evaluation and treatment, if necessary.
