scheduled for biopsy

[moseley7]

My mammogram yesterday showed microcalcifications that were not present 9 months ago in the upper outer quadrant of my right breast.  I am scheduled for a steriotactic biopsy next week at the advice of the radiologist.  Is it true that the top outer quadrant of the breast is inclined more that other ares to developp cancer?  Also, what are the odds (if any) of the microcalcifications indicating cancer?  They were very tiny and the radiologist said that if they are cancer then we are catching it early.  I am a 49 yr old white female.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear moseley7:  Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue.  Microcalcifications in and of themselves are not a condition that would become cancerous however they can be a sign of a problem that may need further investigation based on their appearance on a mammogram.  For instance microcalcifications that are more scattered are probably due to a benign (non-cancerous) cause, a “cluster” of microcalcifications may increase concern that there may be an underlying tumor, thus the recommendation for further testing which may include a biopsy.  The appearance of a new area of microcalcifications is not uncommon and each occurrence of a new area of microcalcifications would be evaluated separately.

More cancers appear to develop in the upper outer quadrant of the breast (the tail) but microcalcifications in this area does not necessarily mean cancer.

[moseley7]

I had the biopsy and the report was positive for DCIS.  I see the breast surgeon today.  It appears they have caught this early.  Thanks for your help.

[milotigger]

Just to tell you my experience...I had a mammo in sept which showed calcifications above the left nipple and an ultrasound in oct that showed a cluster of microcalcifications.  The radiologist recommended excisional biopsy which was scheduled for Dec. 18.  The surgeon moved the biopsy to Jan. 15 and during the wire loc and mammo, the calcifications had spread through the entire breast and so now i'm scheduled for a mastectomy so that all calcifications can be biopsied.  Although upset about losing a breast, I figure cancer free is better.  Even though DCIS is most common and slowest growing, the rapid spread may mean it is invasive-hope this helps and good luck!