new nodule on MRI

[wuhanmom]

I am a forty-nine year old woman who has undergone annual MRIs since a diagnosis of atypical ductal hyperplasia at age 43.  I have a very strong family history of breast cancer (mother and sister in their forties) but our family is negative for a BRCA mutation.  For the past six years, my MRIs have shown multiple enhancing nodules bilaterally, which have remained stable.  However, this year, there is a new well circumscribed 13x14 mm nodule at 9 o'clock in the left breast showing progressive enhancement.  I will have directed ultrasound of the area next week.  I realize that "well circumscribed" and "progressive enhancement" favor a benign process, such as a fibroadenoma, but isn't it unusual for a new fibroadenoma to turn up at my age?  I am still menstruating regularly.  

[DrBhumikaMD]

Hi,
You are most welcome. Do let us know what did your physician tell you. Goodluck!

[wuhanmom]

Thanks!

[bhumi123]

Hi,
Yes you are right a fibroadenoma in your age group is rare although not unheard of. What can be suggested is that you consult with your physician and go ahead with a fine needle aspiration/biopsy if he recommends. Even a surgical excision biopsy would be a good idea considering the family history. The other possibilties in your case that need to be ruled out are cystic disease of the breast and a malignant lesion. A biopsy / MRI/ USG Colour doppler would definitely help if you scepical about getting the invasive procedures done right away.