Scaley spots on right areola

[Dawnatella]

I have a strong history in my family of breast cancer and other cancers. A few weeks ago I had an episode with my right breast. It became inflamed with these red blotches and it felt like it was on fire. This lasted several days.  I didn't do anything to the breast as I was afraid it may be a reaction to something. Since then I have had these intermittent burning sensations in the right breast only, that are quite painful.  Now, as of about a week ago, I noticed two scaly spots on my areola that have made the skin a bit tough and distorted.  I took pictures of each of my nipples to see if there was a difference and there is a defined difference in color, texture and shape.  I have breast implants and have had several mammograms because of my history but they always come back fine.  I have another mammogram scheduled for this month.  My question is this - should I seek medical attention now or just wait for the mammogram?  Is there anything you know of that can cause these symptoms?

[Dawnatella]

I had an exam yesterday. They changed my mammogram to a diagnostic mammogram....and scheduled an appointment for 1 week after it is done. The doc was awesome. She is going to do an ultrasound and biopsy...even if the mammogram doesn't show anything significant. She says the diagnostic mammogram is more detailed but can still miss things with the implants in place. I feel better about the process now. Better safe than sorry. Thank you for your input. This site is great!!

[zouzi]

You’re welcome!
Many women have breast implants and most mammography technicians have learned a variety of methods of providing safe and effective testing.
I hope you found a clinic where radiologists have experience performing and reading mammograms of women with breast implants. Ask about the clinic staff's experience,because you'll want to know also that a special technique called implant displacement views may be used to better evaluate the breast tissue. Also remind the staff that you have breast implants when you arrive at your appointment..
You could ask your Doctor to refer you to a Breast Specialist if he/she is not sure about your areola condition which may or may not be related to a breast problem.
Because you have a strong family history of BC you could ask your Doctor about other testing options like CT scan or MRI testing which do not necessitate breast compression and can be used in women with implant .These tests are extremely useful in providing an early warning against potential problems.
All the best to you…

[Dawnatella]

Thank you for the note. I have an appointment with my OB/GYN tomorrow for a check up. I had a full hysterectomy at 29...this is also the same year my lumpectomy was done. My biggest concern right now is my right breast areola scaling but I have an additional question about my visit tomorrow and subsequent mammogram later this month....do you have any good questions i should ask and is there any other testing i should ask aabout regarding diagnostic mammography? im seriously concerned they cant get goid pictures because of my implants.

[zouzi]

Hi,
It’s hard to say if this is due to a skin problem such as allergy or some type of infection.
You might benefit,before having your Mammogram, from seeing your Doctor or a Dermatologist who can take and look and make appropriate treatment recommendations in case you have a skin condition of some sort or an infection that should be promptly taken care of.
Best wishes..