Thickening on Mammogram

Seven yrs. ago I had stage II Lobular Cancer with 2 Positive lymphnodes.  I underwent a mastectomy & reconstruction and 6 mos. of CMF chemotherapy.  After a routine mammogram this year, they said I have to go back for a compression mammogram & ultrasound due to an "irregular thickening" on the inferior, posterior of the Right breast. An MRI showed a questionable area in the exact same spot.  I have been menopausal for seven years from the chemo.  It was suggested that it might be "fibrous glandular tissue."  I thought this comes from hormonal influences and, being menopausal for so long, how could this be a factor?  Can you please inlighten me on what this could all mean.  My first cancer was never seen on a mammogram or felt by anyone.  It was only found after the breast was removed due to "multiple areas of DCIS."  Your prompt reply would be greatly appreciated as I'm getting very nervous about all this!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear mbsmalline:  While fibrous changes can be hormonally influenced, changes can also occur independently.  However, having a history of breast cancer does increase your risk of a second breast cancer, so it is prudent to have any abnormality thoroughly checked.  Hopefully all will be okay.