microcalcifications

[damalgirl]

Just three days ago got the diagnosis of microcalcifications in both breasts.  They are scattered with no mass effect.  This diagnosis is after a mammogram (my first) and an ultrasound.  The doctor ordered a MRI to look further.  This is all new . . . I've just done a little research on the internet.  But I am wondering why the MRI.  Why not another mammorgram with magnification or a biopsy?  

The doctor indicated that if the MRI is negative he will recommend short-term screening with a mammogram every six months.  

He also informed me about genetic counseling since my sister had breast cancer.  

So far, my main question is why the MRI?  

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,
You have not mentioned your age.
Well the mamogram and USG findings indicate microcalcifications in both breasts as you say. in certain conditions, for example dense breasts at less than 40-45 years of age the mammogram is not able to visualise the breast tissue clearly due to the dense breast tissue.
In such cases an MRI is used to pick upany lesion, also in certain cases the findings of MRI and mammogram are put together to see the region better.
A biopsy would have been difficult, as you say that the microcalcifications are scattered.
A mammogram is done first and then a MRI because an MRI is a more sensitive too to pick up lesions.
Hope this helps.
Good luck.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Breast MRI can be used as a screening method for those women with high risk of breast cancer.  There are features of breast cancer that can be detected easily by MRI scan.  MRI can even be used to direct biopsy.
However, mammography is still the standard of care in breast cancer screening.
Hope that helped.

[damalgirl]

Hi, thank you for your response.  I am 38 years old.  I have three children:  ages 6,4 and 3.  I breastfed them.  

My sister is going to get in touch with her doctor so that I can give the details of her cancer to my doctor--to see if there is any correlation.  Right now, it seems very different (from my limited understanding, of course).  I thank God my sister is doing well--she has been in remission for about 7 years.  

By the way, I am living in Jordan.  I have an excellent doctor, it seems.  I am thankful for him, and it seems that if the microcalcifications are a problem--it must be at a very early stage.

Thanks again.

[damalgirl]

Thank for your response.  I did not mention that I am in Jordan.  My doctor was trained in the U.S. and I feel is very compotent.  I am curious, partly, about any differences in procedures here compared to the U.S.

Thanks a lot.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,
So has the MRI been done? Do get back to us with the MRI findings and what your doctor has advised you.
With your age, it is sure that the MRI is to pick up lesions not visualised on mammogram due to the dense breasts.
Discuss everything with your doctor and schedule a regular follow up plan with him.
Good luck.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
There is probably not much difference in terms of the procedure that needs to be performed on a patient.  That is the reason why there is such a thing as standard of care.  There may be a difference though in the equipment that is to be used, or the technical staff that operates the equipment.  There are centers that can afford to buy the latest equipment, whereas there are centers that still use a less advanced equipment.
Please do give update on your MRI result.

[damalgirl]

Thank you for your helpful comments.  I had the MRI and a follow-up doctor's appointment just 2 days ago.  They found nothing significant on the MRI.  I am thankful!  It seems that the only reason they took care in this case is because of my sister having had BC.  The doctor wants me to do a mammogram every 9 months--just to keep a close eye on things.

Thank you again.  

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

That is great news!! Congratulations!!

Well, that is in fact the normal protocol of management.

Do ask the doctor for a copy of all the reports including the MRI.

You need to carry regular breast self exams - and report any abnormal features to your doctor.

Get a clinical examination done every 6-9 months and a repeat mammogram and ultrasound if required evry 9-12months, depending on your doctor's advice.

Do keep us posted about your health.
Good luck nad Best wishes.