microcalcifications in both breasts and cluster(s) in left

[KR62]

I just had my mammogram on11/28/07. They said I have microcalcifications in both breasts and cluster(s) on the left which needs to be biopsied. The mammogram tech had mentioned to me that it was difficult to get some of the pictures because my breasts are dense. I have very small breasts--does this make them more dense? I've never been told this before. I am 45 yo and have had mammograms before. My mammogram last year was negative. I am booked for my stereoactic biopsy--not until 12/21 and have my consultation with the doctor about 2 hours prior!! I am a nervous wreck!  I know the biopsy results will give the real answers, but while I'm waiting, I just want to know if I am at greater risk of having cancer as this came up 1 year after a normal mammogram. There is no hx. of breast cancer in my family. Thanks.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

That is the reason that annual mammograms are advised after the age of 40 years or in presence of risk factors - to be able to pick up any new lesions, or any changes in breast tissue over the span of 1 year.

You should keep up your spirits high and talk to your doctor about any doubts that you have regarding the biopsy procedure.

Keep us posted.

Regards.

[mav38]

How did your biopsy turn out?  

[KR62]

Thanks for your input. Fortunately, I do not have the risk factors you have mentioned. There is no hx of breast cancer in my family;I never smoked; I do not take any estrogen medications; I am not over weight( actually underweight 116-118 lbs); I am very active and  onset of menses at age 14. I have 2 children 11 &13 which both were breastfed for 6 months. The nurse at the Breast Center said because I nursed, some calcification from the milk could be in the ducts etc. Is this true? Then why wouldn't this have been detected in an earlier mammogram. I guess my main question is why my mammogram last year was negative and suddenly this year it's not? Like I said I know the biopsy on the 21st. will give me the real answer, I'm just trying to prepare myself. Thanks!

[DrBhumikaMD]

Hi,
The size of the breasts does have an affect on the mammogram. And yes you are right, that sometimes, in case of small breasts because they are more dense, there is a difficulty in picking up the lesion on mammography. Microcalcifications are tiny bits of calcium, and may show up in clusters, or in patterns and indicate extra cell activity in breast tissue. Usually the extra cell growth is not cancerous. But sometimes tight clusters of microcalcifications can indicate early breast cancer. Scattered microcalcifications are usually benign. Yes you are right that the microcalcifications need to be investigated further and a biopsy would help in establishing whether the process is benign or malignant. Goodluck.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  The microcalcifications may be suspicious for cancer and need to be checked by doing a biopsy.  But it is probably incorrect to say that the microcalcifications themselves increase your risk of developing breast cancer. These calcifications can be  a manifestation of the cancer, not a contributing cause. Certain factors, such as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity, early onset of menstruation, use of some estrogen-containing drugs, and strong family history of breast cancer all contribute to increased risk.