Please help clarify....

I've done a lot of reading, trying to figure out what the small discrete higher density area on mom's mammogram could be, especially since it does not show up on ultrasound.  What could cause densities to appear and disappear on mammograms? And how can one ever be confident that these are benign and nothing to worry about? Is there any way to reduce the stess and anxiety associated with a mammo that shows such an area?  What is the deciding point where one decides to wait 6 months and have a repeat mammo rather than proceed to biopsy which in itself is scary and stressful!

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear with2kidsnow, When a density is seen on a mammogram the radiologist can rate the degree of suspicion of the area, and make recommendations as to whether further evaluation is warranted.  A density could be because of a fold of breast tissue - if this is the case often a mammogram focusing on the area of density using (spot compression) can clarify the situation.  Density because of a malignancy would not just disappear.  Having a good discussion with the radiologist and/or surgeon who have reviewed the mammograms and other testing, asking questions about their opinions of the findings may help to relieve your anxiety.  If your questions remain unanswered and you are still concerned about the recommended course of action you could always seek a second opinion from a breast specialist to review the findings.