Need advice and support

leslie1024

I am 37 years old. My mom died of breast cancer 14 years ago. I had multiple lumpectomies soon after my mom died. All were benign. I have annual breast MRIs and mammograms. Most recently in Nov and Dec of 2008. 6 month follow up recommended, primarily due to microcalcifications in the right breast.

At the end of December, my left breast began to swell with a discoloration at the base of the breast. I have seen my internal medicine doctor and two different breast surgeons. No one can tell me why my breast is swollen (this is how my mom's cancer was found). They just say that it is a good thing that the MRIs and mammograms were normal in Nov/Dec especially since there were no other symptoms.

Now I have nipple discharge (orange) and the nurse at the breast center said they are only concerned if it is bloody.

I am scared. I feel lost. I don't want to be "that" patient, that pesky, pushy, demanding patient. But I also know that mistakes are made  and things are missed and I encourage my own patients to ask questions and be persistant.

One of the surgeons suggested that it may be time to have a prophylactic mastectomy. That my anxiety and fear were too much in control.

Any advice?

leslie1024

Thank you for responding. No warmth.  The discoloration is purple brown in color. The breast is still soft. Taken a weeks worth of antibiotics with the hopes that it was mastitis. Didn't make a difference

angelaw

Hi: Sorry to hear about your worries.  It does make sense to be worried because of your mother's condition.  I only want to add my two cents that you should be at a very good teaching hospital or cancer center.  Have you had the genetic testing? That might make you feel better:  either to confirm your fears or to alleviate them.  Insurance would cover the test and it is fairly quick.  I think that would be a good piece of evidence to have before having  a dbl mast.  I am brca2+ and had the dbl mast.  I am glad I did under MY circumstances. God be with you.