microcalcifications

[Allie9]

Mammogram + magnification mammogram + core stereotactic biopsy; cluster too close to chest wall to get sample from all areas; path results = adenoma w/no follow-up for 1 yr.  I am 61 y/o and am concerned about the potential error in the path because not all the cluster could be analyzed....and because I thought that unreachable microcalcifications close to the chest wall should have excision rather than needle biopsy.  Is follow-up in a yr a sensible plan?  Is it time to just be thankful for the results and breathe?

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Allie9,  For your comfort level you may want to get an opinion from a breast specialist who can review all of the test results with you and advise whether any further investigation is recommended at this time.    Biopsy results must be interpreted in conjunction with the exam and imaging findings.

[japdip]

If you aren't 100% comfortable (and I gather that you aren't) please don't hesitate to get a second opinion from a breast specialist and also another pathologist. Never just let yourself wonder ..... it's not healthy. Good luck.

[Another Survivor]

I agree, doesn't sound like you are comfortable with this.  I had microcalcifications that turned out to be Stage 2 breast cancer.  Nothing could be felt in a breast exam but this was discovered in a routine mammogram.  Later I learned it was widerspread with more microcalcifications than could be seen on a mammogram.  I was 52 years old at the time, 2.5 years ago.
This could be very slow growing but if I were you I wouldn't wait a year.
I hope it turns out to be nothing which is often the case.

[vickymissy]

I just found out today that i have breast cancer don't know what kind yet. But mammo in nov 06 should small cluster of microcalsifications another mammo this year oct 3 showed just a few more. Yesterday i went for a streotactic biopsy today my doc called and said i had breast cancer and shcedueled me to a specialist on friday the 12th.  I do not have any history in my family i am not on harmone replacement drugs never had birth control drugs and i don't drink and don't smoke. I am 54  so i am looking for support i guess. and any info would be helpful. Thank you  vicky

[mcbois]

I just got back from a follow-up mammo and scheduling a steriotactic biopsy for tomorrow.  I did hear the radiologist say that microcalcifications that were too small to be felt, if they turned out to be cancerous (which was highly unlikely) would be the best type of breast cancer to treat, as it would have been caught so early.  I too have no family history, no hrt, etc, so like you, I am hoping for the best possible outcome.  good luck and I am hoping for the best foryou!

[nora540]

Have had 2 mammograms recently as microcalcifications found.  I believe there is a cluster of them which is concerning.  My dr. called this a.m. to say I would need a biopsy, likely in a week or 2.  Will have to wait til next week to see the surgeon to see what the plan is.  The waiting is the worst as I am trying hard to be positive but at the same time very scared and emotional.  What would be the best type of biopsy I should get to make sure they get enough tissue and make sure it is the right area?  Should it be only a needle biopsy or more like a lumpectomy even though there is no actual lump?  Don't know the different types of biopsies, but would like to be well informed so when I see the surgeon I can make sure I am getting the best treatment to see if there is any cancer.  Any info would be greatly appreciated...

[Montana girl 06]

I've had both types of biopsies and there are good reasons for both. The needle biopsy, done by a radiologist, is less invasive and leaves less scar tissue that can muddy the water for future mammograms. Although they usually only get a sampling of the tissue, it's supposed to be around 97-98% accurate.The only downside is that if you have cancer they need to do an excisional biopsy at a later date.  A needle directed biopsy is used for excisional biopsy of calcifications to mark where the calcifications are since they can't be felt. They take more mammograms as the radiologist inserts a wire (or 2) to mark where the calcifications are. Then  a surgeon removes the calcifications plus some surrounding tissue so that hopefully, they don't have to go back for more tissue later. I know waiting is really hard and it's natural to be scared.Just remember that about 85% of calcifications are benign. If it turns out to be cancer, it is most likely an early and very treatable cancer.

[nora540]

Thanks for the info, I'm glad I found this site.