mammogram after benign results

[sleeplessinseattle3]

I am 41, got my first mammogram last year. Never had implants, car accident where the airbag deployed, and I have three children. I had microcalcifications in one breast by the wall and under the nipple. They did a stereo on the area by the nipple it came out benign. Went back for my 6 month check up on that breast, the Dr. requested a magnified film, nurse had me wait in the waiting room then came and told me there was an area they were going to watch, "nothing too scary" but to come back in 6 months for my annual. I did, new nurse, when I asked if she was going to do a magnified film she said she didn't think so unless it was requested. I asked if she could show my where on my films from 6 months ago there was a concern, she didn't know because it wasn't marked. She said she would check with Dr. about the magnified film and came back stating "looks stable". Then she told me where to change and exit. I don't even know when I am suppose to go back, 6 months, a year? The reminder letter for the appointment even stated "exam will enable us to be certain that the findings of your last mammogram and/or ultrasound are benign". Help!

[japdip]

First of all you go back in 6 months which will put you back on your annual schedule. I'm sure they are watching the same area for any changes that might occur. It's called GOOD MEDICAL PRACTICE and being vigilant. The reminder letters are pretty much "form letters" so I wouldn't read too much into the wording of them. Just go back in 6 months as recommended.  Take care ....

[bluebutterfly2222]

You might also want to request copies of the radiologists' full reports ( which would include specific recommendations and the Birad score) for the two mammos and the magnified film, if you haven't already. Some mammo centers send this to you, while others just send a "you're okay" letter, thinking the actual report would be too confusing or frightening to the patient.

You do have a right to the full report if you want it, though, and if there's anything that concerns you, you can ask your physician to go over it with you the next time you see her/him. Some of the women who post here didn't know they had dense breasts (which might reqire an MRI), or in one case, that there was an area being watched, until they saw the radiologists' reports.

I'm glad that your biopsy was benign. Now you just need to have regular follow-up as recommended and, of couse, immediately report any changes that you might detect--which is what we ALL should do.

Regars...