calcifications

[topinka]

Back in May had mammogram (digital) found clustered micorcalcifications. I then had spot magnification and 90 degree imaging . Was told sparse in number and benign-appearing.From 4/6/07 does not appear to be significant interval change from analog and digital technique. Impression was probably benign calcifications present along 12:00 of breast. Plan flollowup in six months to document stability of probably benign finding. BI-RADS 3
Now my six months is up and I go in a few weeks for another mammogram. I went on to a surgeon to see what she thought. She told me to wait 6 months and do the followup and not to worry. But that's hard to do. There has not been a day go by that its not on my mind. I want to know what other think I'm tired of being told not to worry I feel alone. Maybe some one can explain what all this means. The surgeon I went to has done a biopsy on my right breast 10 years ago which was benign. Thanks for your help.

[zouzi]

Your mammograms report states " Probable benign" with a BIRADS 3.As a rule, the 6 months wait is not uncommon.The clustered calcification seen on your mammograms obviously has you concerned and you are not comfortable about the "wait and see"advice from your Surgeon.If I were you I would ask to have a biopsy followed by your next mammogram that you'll have in a few weeks time,even if the BIRADS score is still a 3.I think that having a biopsy will stop you worrying and stressing everyday about this problem for the next 6 months to come.Best wishes.

[specialmom]

Well, I think they are telling you that from their expert opinion-----  you shouldn't worry.  I went straight from screening mammogram to breast surgeon to biopsy for calcifications a few weeks ago.  I had a large cluster of microcalcifications that were linear, lobular, different shapes and sizes, etc.  Mine were highly suspicious.  Even with that, the surgeon told me that there was a great chance they were benighn but they needed to see what they were.  Sure enough, they were benign.  I go back in six months to the breast surgeon.  So if a surgeon and radiologist says probably benign, lets monitor----  I would try not to worry.  You can get a second opinion.  But remember that 80 to 85 percent of the time, calcifications are benign.  Keep doing  your self breast checks and obviously, if you feel a lump----  go right away.  But try not to worry.  Good luck.