breast ultrasound

[shar8878]

I had a breast ultrasound and was told that I had a mass in my right breast and should see a breast surgean to discuss biopsy.  The report refers to the mass as well circumscribed, slightly lobulated hypoechoic mass in the 9oclock position.  It says that it is a solid mass as reported by ultrasound.  I am confused about what hypoechoic means.  It sounds like from other things I've read here that it is better than hyperechoic.  How does it compare to isoechoic? Can a malignant mass be hypoechoic?  Is "well circumscribed" a good thing?  When they say "solid mass"  does that necessarily mean that it can't be a simple fibroadenoma?  
Thanks,
S

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

A benign lesion could be lobulated - there are certain features which are more common in benign conditions and others that are seen mostly in association with malignant disease , but this is not a rule.

But you still need to get the biopsy done for a confirmed diagnosis.

Let us know about the reports when they come in and post us about how you are doing.

Post us if you have any doubts.

Regards.

[shar8878]

I see now that you responded, but cought this after my last post.  I did see the surgean today and she felt that a core needle biopsy via ultrasound would be best for me.  I am a little disapointed that I have to wait another 2 wks for the biopsy and then more days waiting for the report.  As I said in my last post, she did say that slightly lobulated meant that it wasn't perfectly round.  I know it's all probably nothing, but I am still worried.  Can a benign mass also be lobulated?
Thanks

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Fibrocystic changes are the development of fibrous and fluid filled areas in the breast tissue. These are mostly considered benign. They are generated during the changes in the hormonal levels and the sensitivities of the breast tissues.

Hypoechoic means that on Ultrasound the area threw back lesser echoes than surrounding tissues. Such areas may include vessels or cysts. Again these are benign.

A hypoechoic lesion means that its density is less than the surrounding normal breast tissue which is said to be isoechoic on ultrasound. Further investigations like a biopsy would be required for a confirmed diagnosis.

You may talk with your doctor regarding these terms. Please let us know if you had any other problems associated with this?

Also let us know what your doctor says and if you may have any other questions/queries.

Regards.

[shar8878]

I have an appt scheduled day after tomorrow.  Thanks for responding!

[japdip]

The Hypo and Hyper echoic mean that fewer echos or more echos are produced from the ultrasound contacting the lesion. Only the biopsy will tell you what the lesion is for sure. I hope you have made the recommended appointment with the breast surgeon.