8mm Lymph Node in Breast

[kk8590]

I recently had an MRI and the radioligist found my silicone implants had ruptured and an 8mm lymph node in breast of uncertain significance. Now my breast doctor is sending me to an oncologist and they are considering doing a PET scan, and I do not understand why because she said the MRI did not show cancer. I need help in what to ask this oncologist and should I be concerned? Thanks

[japdip]

It sounds fine to me ... it's being vigilant without doing a procedure that might be unnecessary. You might speak to your Plastic Surgeon about the possibility of a biopsy before you have your implants replaced. Perhaps they could co-ordinate things and do everything at one time. I don't know the time line for you replacement but it wouldn't hurt to ask about it. Regards ...

[kk8590]

I went to the oncologist and she had me do a CT scan and did some blood work. The CT scan looked good she said except I had some fatty liver tissue. She said there is an 8mm lymph node behind my breast bone and she wants to do another CT scan in 3 months to make sure the lymph node has not grown. I also have to get my implants replaced due to the bilateral rupture. I asked her if she should not do a biopsy of the lymph node before I have the implants replaced and she said she could not because of where it is located and it is too small. I asked what will happen if it grows and she said it will need a biopsy. My question is does this sound like proper procedure and if my node does grow and I need a biopsy is it safe with implants due to the location of the node? Thanks kk8590

[japdip]

My first question would have been for your Breast Dr. ... "why are you sending me to an Oncologist?".  I haven't a clue about any of it and if I were you I would be asking  "why" several times. Inramammary nodes are not all that unusual but it might need to be investigated to be sure that it truly is of no significance. Actually the MRI could not indicate cancer to a 100% certainty .... a biopsy would be needed to do this. Just keep on asking WHY until you are comfortable with the answers.    Regards ....