Not sure what to think

[psybrdoc]

I found a palpable lump in my breast several weeks ago. The timing was odd in that I found it about 3 weeks after my annual mammogram. I am 44 years old, my mother is a 2 time breast cancer survivor, my maternal grandmother also had breast cancer. Upon visit to my Ob/Gyn she stated she was not alarmed by it, but wanted to have an ultrasound done and for me to see a breast surgeon. There was nothing visible on ultrasound, however the surgeon expressed some concerns. The lump is 7 cm, shaped somewhat like a peanut. Over the course of these few weeks I have also noticed a change in my breast (it feels "harder" if that makes any sense).

I have options if I should have a needle biopsy, have the lump removed or wait. I am nearly 3 years post hysterectomy with bilateral oopherectomy, so not dealing with monthly menstrual hormonal changes.

Any input would be appreciated. Being the daughter of a breast cancer survivor, I worry that I may be overreacting, I am leaning toward having the lump removed entirely and having a biopsy.

Thank you.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear psybrdoc:  There is no absolute right answer.  The answer lies with the recommendation and concern of the surgeon and your level of comfort with that recommendation.  A discussion of pros and cons of each option with the surgeon and perhaps your doctor may be a good idea.

[japdip]

I wouldn't wait ... that wouldn't be an option for me and from your post I assume it isn't for you either. I think a biopsy would definitely be a good first move to differentiate between benign and malignant. If you had the lump removed before biopsy; not knowing it's origin there might possibly be another surgery if it were cancer. I'm just hitting all the possibilities here and not predicting one way or the other ... if it were something other than benign, clean margins might not have been obtained and some lymph node testing would also need to be done. I don't think you are over reacting at all and I would certainly go ahead with the biopsy. If this lump is Fibrocystic then there isn't much cause for concern ... other than the discomfort it is causing of course.  Regards ..