Code 4

[Jacalyn111]

After a mammogram and ultra sound I was told that I had a "code 4" breast nodule (2 lumps) and had a biopsy and do not know the results as yet.  What is a code 4??  And what are the odds with a code 4 that this is cancer?

[nellean]

I had a mammogram which showed a lump.  They suggested an ultrasound which concluded a 2 o'clock position demostrating a 0.6 x 0.7 c. solid lesion wihch is slightly taller than wide with posterior shawdowing .  there is lobulated margin of the lesion.  This is category 4.  Recommended sterotactic biopsy.  I just had my biopsy at an imaging center and they said my doctor must have ordered the wrong test and they did the ultrasound guided biopsy.  Does this mean that the imaging center seen something in the ultrasound that was more serious and took the lump out?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Do you mean a BIRAD category 4?

BIRAD means breast imaging reporting and data system- it is used by radiologists to classify breast lesions. Further managemnet is then decided accordingly.

Category 0: Need Additional Imaging Evaluation
Category 1: Negative
Category 2: Benign Finding
Category 3: Probably Benign Finding; Short Interval Follow-Up Suggested
Category 4: Suspicious Abnormality; Biopsy Should Be Considered
Category 5: Highly Suggestive of Malignancy; Appropriate Action Should Be Taken

A BIRADS 4 means the lesion is suspicious in nature and a biopsy would be required for a confirmed diagnosis and to rule out a malignant lesion.

Let us know if this helps and if you have any other doubts.

Regards.