mammogram finding

I had my routine mammogram 9-13-07.  The report shows predominately fatty with stabile residual mildly asymmetric scattered fibroglandular densities,  Also, a 12 mm axillary lymph node not imaged previously.  I have an appointment with a breast surgeon on 10-1-07.  My family history is --maternal grandmother died at 50 from breast cancer; my mother died at 53 from ovarian cancer; father died at 63 from bone cancer; my brother--age 57--lost a kidney to renal cancer and a lung to non-hodgkins lymphoma.  I have RA and OA but no other health problems.  I had a pelvic ultrasound done and that was normal.  I am 48 years old and very nervous.  What can I expect the breast surgeon to do and want to do?  Are the fibroglandular densities something to worry about?  I have 2 sisters that had biopsies done for luimps in theie breasts but everything was okay.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The surgeon would discuss whether a biopsy of the lymph node or any suspicious breast masses.  Cancer would be the obvious diagnosis that needs to be ruled out, and a biopsy would help exclude that possibility.  

A breast MRI can be considered if there were any lesions that were suspicious.

I agree with the treatment approach that has been described.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_