screening mamm vs diag mamm

[jackie140]

Is it common to see a SPICULATED nodule on a screening mamm and not on a diag mamm?  I understand that sometimes things show up on a screening mamm and not on a diag - but spiculated is a concerning term - so my question is if something appears spiculated once does it mean it does not exist?  Can it be so small that it does notshow up on a diag mamm?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

You could see a breast specialist and clear out any doubts that you have. Also , ask him/her whether an MRI would help in your case.

Let us know what the specialist advises and also post us if you have any doubts.

Regards.

[jackie140]

I am 42 years old.  I have been getting mamm since I was 35 bec I was adopted and do not have any family history info.  A 5mm spiculated nodule was found on my screening mamm.  On the diagnostic and us they do not see it.  The radiology report for the diag mamm says probably benign.  That confuses me because if they say they do not see anything what could be benign?  
I am not comfortable waiting 6 months, especially since I do not have any info on my family history.  I am going to a breast center for a second opinion on March 24.  I understand that with dense breasts it can be hard to see things, but to specifically say a spiculated nodule was seen and then not seen scares me.  Your thoughts?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

If a nodule is visible on screening mammogram and not on diagnostic - the only possible explanation is that either it has resolved, or was a false lesion seen on screening or missed during diagnostic mammogram - though this is rare.

Spiculated means that the borders of the nodule are irregular.

You could talk to your doctor about what would the further plan of management be. In most cases, a repeat mammogram is usually advised in 6 months time.

What is your age? Have you noticed any abnormal features on breast self examination like a lump, nipple discharge or nay skin changes?

Let us know what your doctor advises and if you have any more doubts.

Keep us posted about how you are doing.

Hope this helps.

Regards.

[japdip]

The mammograms are the same except the diag. mammo is done when a Radioloist is present to read the films on the spot (so to speak). With screening mammos, the films are read at a later time but also by a Radiologist.