complex cysts

[Rita7]

I have been cystic all of my life and recently my new gyn sent me for an ultrasound of the left breast after he drained a large cyst. He never sent the fluid to the lab but sent me for an ultra sound of my left breast. The lab found 3 complex cysts and suggested that I have them aspirated. When I questioned about my right breast, they advised me that most likely I also have several complex cysts in my right breast as well but since I didn't have an ultrsound they have no responsibility to advise me to have them aspirated. They also told me that ultrasounds are not routine and that 99.9% of the time they are benign. Should I have 3 need biopsies done on my left breast and then have an ultrasound on my right breast? I feel like I'll be spending my life at the hospital having needle biopsies. Also, if I don't go, will I be missing something?


This discussion is related to Complex Breast cyst.

[PaulMD]

Cysts are mostly benign occurences, and some women are really predisposed to develop such.  However, the ultrasound is not a good gauge if the findings will be benign or malignant.  A mammogram may be better in giving clues regarding the nature of the lesions.  If suspicious, then an aspiration or excision may indeed be warranted.

Also, some characteristics of the cysts or lumps that can point out to a possible malignancy would include irregular, gritty borders, fixed and non-movable, or associated with skin dimpling or edema.

Regards.