Scared § Confussed

[consue]

I got a mamogram (mammogram) and was sent a letter stating that microcalcifications showed up(letter said this does not mean you have cancer but come back for more views) 2 Weeks before we could get an appointment. This was during Thanksgiving Holdiays. We went back and got more test and was sent to a Cancer Spec. and he told us he saw a cluster of 3 and they were small and not to worry and come back in 4 months. I told him probally was not really good enough for me and he told me if I called him every day for next 3 weeks he would do a biopsy.  Not to worry.  4 Months is a long time not to worry. My husband seems to be ok with this decision but I am still worried.  Cancer runs in my family and it worries me.  Should I see another MD and press the issue of a biopsy?  He told me also that if we biopsied every spot we saw on women's xray it would be OVERKILL.  He was a really nice MD but still I am worried.  What if I go back in 4 months and there are more and it has spread.  Then probally he was wrong.  I am probally overacting as my husbands says but I just wanted another opinion.  Thanks, Consue

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear consue:  Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue. 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 tumor.  So, the question is how suspicious this looks.  If you are going to worry for 4 months, then it may make sense to biopsy if for no other reason than your peace of mind.  Another option is to get a second opinion from a breast surgeon.  If two are not worried, maybe that will ease your mind.

[Suzo]

I would wonder about a doctor that said:   if I called him every day for next 3 weeks he would do a biopsy.  What is with that?  Is that supposed to show you are serious about your request?  First thing I'd do is get a copy of your mammogram report and be sure you understand every line...if your doctor won't discuss it with you to your satisfaction then it is time to seek another doctor.  I've been through 18 months of watching microcalcifications with a biopsy finally indicated in July when the calcifications showed to be increasing, linear and branching.  Although mine turned out to be DCIS and I've just finished radiation following a lumpectomy--I can tell you that the worse was not knowing and waiting for results.  Most calcifications turn out to be benign but I'm sure that doesn't do anything for your worry level.  The important thing for you is to educate yourself on your particular circumstances, feel confident that your doctor is listening to you and helping you understand your options, and seeking whatever medical approach gives you reasonable peace of mind.  It may be that waiting is the right thing to do, but is should be done only when you are fully informed.  Patting you on the head and telling you not to worry isn't an approach to accept from any health care professional.