Mammogram showed a mass - ultra sound showed nothing

March 3rd - went in for a normal annual physical.  Doctor felt a lump.  March 22 went in for my very first mammogram.  Was called back for a ultrasound.  I received another two mammogram photos...then the ultrasound.  Mammogram shows a mass....ultrasound didnt show much of anything but a cyst.  Because of the mammogram I am scheduled for a breast MRI....I am going out of my mind trying to understand why I need an MRI - and not just having a biopsy????  Anyone else go through this.  I am 41....and I am scared.....and I dont know what to think or feel.

[japdip]

Very often the same finding doesn't show on both Mammogram and Ultrasound. Each test has it's value. If this is truly a cyst as the Ultrasound demonstrated then it would be foolish to have a biopsy. The MRI can possibly clarify things to the point where a biopsy may not be necessary. A non-invasive test is always preferable to an invasive procedure.     Regards .....

[SueYoung55]

japdip is correct. Mammograms didn't show my cancer and an ultra sound found a tiny piece of it but an MRI showed all 10 cm of it.

Each imaging device has it's benefits for surveillance. The MRI is nothing to get upset about and it doesn't hurt. You just lay on your tummy with the "girls" hanging into two holes in the table you're laying on.  No smashing or squishing etc..

Though the MRI was quite accurate on me, there are also a lot of false positives. I guess the only way you'll see what each device shows is to ask to see your films. It's interesting. Best wishes to you.

[Jackbro35]

Thank you for your time and your answers......I am told so much...You are fine (i dont feel very fine)....that if there is a problem I would have already known....and its just a procedure to prove there is nothing there.  I am a good person with facts...so that I understand what the next step will be.  This limbo life of is there a problem or a cancer or is there not....is just very hard for me.  What an eye opening experience either way.  Honestly I just didnt ever expect to be in this boat and I dont like it.  My hat is off and my head is bowed for every single person who has to take this entire journey.  I extend my love and thoughts to all of you and your unique experiences.  Wishing everyone peace and strength!

[SueYoung55]

The waiting is the hardest of all. Please try and relax and be kind to yourself. Best wishes.

[ncmichigan]

I just wanted to add my best wishes for benign results. I can empathize with your fears-the waiting is absolutely the hardest part. We can tolerate discomfort and even pain, but
the emotional rollercoaster is harder than anything else. I hope it's a comfort to know you're not alone---we all went through this and survived and actually became stronger. I know I did---I've had three biopsies on five different areas and with each one, the wait for
the results was the worst of the whole experience. But now I feel I have a whole new perspective and a strength I didn't think I had.
Please try to stay postive, be good to yourself, distract yourself if you can, get help from family and friends. Try to believe that you can deal with anything that's sent your way and you'll be O.K. We're here to support you and provide additional information and experience if you need it.
Sending you a big hug (     ),
nc

[Jackbro35]

Thank you very much.....I am doing my darndest to stay positive and busy....waiting stinks.....I love to read and so you know my personality type....I read the last chapter first....always open presents early then re wrap like I didnt.....I dont like surprises at all....laughing.  Sending a big huge hug back you deserve it....