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confused on mammo results

Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
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MedHelp Member's Question
confused on mammo results
by MICKYH, Feb 18, 2003 12:00AM
i have some pain in left breast which comes and goes, so my doctor sent me for amammogram, then they called me back for some additional views.  My doctor told me that there was a asymetrical area in the breast but that she didn't think it was anything.  I also received a letter from the radiology office which did the mammogram stating that the mammogram showeed no signs of cancer but that I should return in 6 months for another mammogram.
I am a little confused as to why they want me to return, does this sound correct or should I get a second opinion?

Thank You!
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-JS, Feb 18, 2003 12:00AM
Dear Mickyh, The radiologist often only has the information of this mammogram and not how it relates to the rest of your history, and physical exam.  Your doctor interprets the radiologists finding with the benefit of the rest of your information.  Discuss with your doctor the radiologists report so they can help to interpret it in light of your specific situation.  If you are uncomfortable with the explanation, and are still concerned then a second opinion is an option.
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Member Comments (2)
by surgeon, Feb 18, 2003 12:00AM
assymettry is very common on mammograms: it just means that the breast tissue on one side is not a mirror image of the tissue on the other. When such things show up, it is necessary to decide to what extent it could be something else.  Radiologists tend to be very conservative; meaning if they are at all worried they tend to suggest aggressive followup. So a 6-month followup suggestion means they feel quite sure it's ok. However, another opinion never hurts; and when a woman remains concerned there are ways to sample an area without doing an open surgical biopsy.
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