Wondering what abnormal results mean

[carol03]

I am 47 and have been having yearly mamograms for ten years.  I had a sterotactic biopsy perfomed last week, due to calcifications in two areas of the left breast.  My doctor's assistant called today and said they wanted me to now see a Breast Surgeon.  She said that one of the area's of concern was fine, but the other was ITIPIA, not normal.  When I asked if it was benign, she said it was not cancer.  If it is not cancer, what does abnormal mean?

I would appreciate anyone's experience or comments on this, I am freaking out.

Thanks so much

[carol03]

Thanks for replying, I appreciate your response and giving some insight

[japdip]

I believe the term was Atypia .... probably Hyperplasia with atypia. This finding is sometimes referred to as being pre-cancerous but is not cancer. The usual treatment is surgical removal by lumpectomy followed by some type of treatment; possibly radiation and hormonal therapy. There is an increase in the risk of developing breast cancer in the future and this is the reason for the complete surgical removal and additional treatment. This condition is referred to as ADH.    Regards .....