Microcalcifications, why now

[KR62]

Hi again and thank you for your last response. As I posted before, I am 45 yo and just had my mammogram the other day and after having all normal mammograms, now I've been told I have microcalcifications in both breasts with cluster(s) in the left which is to be biopsied 12/21. I also had an US on my right breast as I felt a painful pea size bump. The US showed I had multiple cysts--this is also "new" for me. I am not overweight, never smoked, am physically active and menses began at 14. I have 2 children 11 and 13 whom I nursed both for 6 months. The nurse at the Breast Center said the calicifications could be from "leftover milk". Is that true and if so, why wasn't this ever found before? Also, to go from a "normal" mammogram to now one with multiple calcification with cluster on one side in just one year, what is the significance of these changes now all at once? I just feel like a brick has been dropped on my head. Of course, I'm trying to be positive, but I want to prepare myself realistically.

[KR62]

Hi Betsy, I think the procedure took about 1/2 hour or less. I took 1 mg of Ativan 1 hour prior to the procedure which really helped. I was very relaxed and actually quite comfortable. You lay on your stomach, they use a mammography machine to make sure they know where the cluster is that they want to bx; they cleanse/swab the area; you feel a pin ***** with the local anesthetic followed by about 10 seconds of burning. After the local anesthetic is in, the only thing I felt was a very small tugging/pressure--really nothing. HONESTLY, it is not that bad at all--better than going to the dentist for a filling!! When I got home, I put ice on for a while and took a nice nap---gotta love that Ativan!! When I woke up, the anesthetic was gone and I was alittle achy, so I took Extra Strength Tyelenol just once and was fine. I did use the ice for the first 3 days and again, the sports bra was great. I had this done the Friday before Christmas--with the weekend and Holiday closing the pathology dept., I had my results Dec. 26th!! I expected to wait much longer. Good Luck and let me know how you make out!! Prayers and poisitive thoughts are with you!!! Karen

[betsy7]

Karen:  I'm making myself crazy.  How long did your stereotactic take?   Betsy

[KR62]

Hi Betsy, I'm glad you were able to reschedule sooner. I had to wait 3 weeks fro my stereotactic biopsy and the waiting was terrible--I too would cry when talking about it--you are not alone in that. It's an emotional roller coaster until you get your results. I posted about stereotactic biopsies after I had mine done. If you didn't see it, I want you to know, the procedure is NOT that bad at all. I would highly encourage you to get a prescription for Ativan or Valium and take it 1 hour prior to your biopsy(you will need someone to drive you!!) Also, get a sports bra--my calcifications were also on the left side, to the left of the nipple, so a regular bra's edge would rub right near the site. Sports bra is cut wider and was very comfortable--sleep with it on for the 1st 2-3 nights. Lastly, pick up some reusable ice packs at the local pharmacy and apply frequently over the first 2-3 days(ice cubes melt and leak--these packs are great and don't get you wet!!) Keep me posted and best wishes for a benign report. The support of this site is awesome and was very comforting to me during this crazy time in my life.
Take care and good luck!!! Karen

[betsy7]

Hi everyone:  I've been reading the comments in the forum for about a week.  I'm 61 and have had normal mammograms for 20 years, and I'm still reeling at going from a BIRADS 1 to a 4 in 5 days!
I alternate between terror and sadness and I still can't talk to others about it without crying. I have a cluster of microcalcifications in my upper outer left breast.  The Radiologist also says there was an area of nodular density which is related to the calcifications.  I was scheduled the middle of January for my stereotactic bx, but thanks to the mercy of one of the nurses I work with, I was able to be scheduled at the medical center where I work to have it on January 3rd.  I'm more than a little apprehensive about the test.  I'm happy that some of you had benign results and that's what I'm hoping for.  I'll keep all of you in my daily prayers.  Thanks for the information.  Betsy

[bec777]

Hi everyone.  When I was 11, my mom was diagnosed with stage 3 B breast cancer.  her tumor was over 10cm when it was removed.  she underwent chemo and radiation...and a LOT of surgeries and then reconstruction. (I've pretty much seen it all). I myself have had 2 lumpectomies, both benign. Look, I know cancer inside and out and you're all probably terrified.  I really do understand.  But I promise you there's hope.  I'm 17 now and constantly getting grounded by my very alive mom for not cleaning my room :)
If any of you have any questions about the treatment process, the COPING process, or just need someone to talk to, PLEASE message me.
I dont know any of you but I love you with all my heart.
good luck
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeycahClIJI   (just watch it - you'll see)

[KR62]

HOORAY!!!! That is wonderful news HazelLynn!!! Sorry for you this news took so long getting to you--but extremely happy for you it is wonderful news!! NY2007--have you gotten your results yet? I'm praying you will also have wonderful news to share with us. I have a follow up mammo tomorrow and meet with the doctor afterwards. Happy New Year to you both and to everyone on the site---hope good news finds everyone in the New Year. Thank you for all your help, support and prayers. It is greatly appreciated.