MRI Results - Wtg for Biopsy Course of Action

AnnieB26

Had annual mammo on Dec. 23rd, called for follow-up on Dec. 30th, Right Breast Needle Biopsy on Jan. 14th, results were atypical ductal and lobular hyperplasia, ductal calcifications. Radiologist said pre-cancer cells, recommends surgical biopsy. MRI on Jan. 20th, results: Multiple foci with type I, II & II curves in both breasts; No abnormal axillary or internal mammary lymph nodes demonstrated. ACR Category 5. Met with general surgeon on Jan. 29th, he read the results to me, explained that MRI results may appear to be a "Bigfoot", but can turnout to be a "log", LOL (nervous laughter). Radiologist recommends MR guided biopsies of two areas in each breast foci of enhancement if I desire breast conservation therapy (BCT). Surgeon wants to consult with Radiologist before deciding course of action with surgical biopsy. Should hear back hopefully early this coming week.

Some background/history: I'm 52 years old, menopausal. I just lost my mom last Monday after a year of intense at home care-giving. She was 87, lived a great life and died from natural causes (small strokes, dementia). She had two local melanoma's removed years ago. My dad is 88, healthy, had prostate cancer in late 80's early 90's, had it removed and has been fine since. All 7 of his brothers had prostrate cancer, one died due to late treatment, others had various treatments and survived all in their 90's. One of their sisters died of BC when she was 35. Other sister, no cancer and is 84. I am an only child. I'm divorced, but have a very supportive significant other. Two sons (18 & 20). One in college, the other starting college this summer.

I'm scared, but trying to be calm and do research and carry on as normal. I am sleeping, but wake up intermittently, in a slight panic, realizing this is not a dream. Found this great website and forums this morning. Just need some peer support! You all are wonderful to all who post here.

roadrash

Hi Annie. I am so sorry about your mom. I know how hard it is to be a caregiver to a parent. Getting news like this on top of losing your mom is horrible. I am so glad that you have a great team of medical providers. I hope your doctor explained to you that precancer doesn't always mean cancer.The findings- "atypical ductal and lobular hyperplasia" is abnormal but to my understanding not cancer, unless my breast surgeon had been lying to me all these years. It was explained to me that there is an increase in cells not forming in a nice pattern or something. I usually got that report a lot after a biopsy. It seems like you trust your doctor and he is not in any rush or alarmed so take your time with your decision. I have had the biopsy and the surgical biopsy to remove it, but that's because I have always been a nervous wreck over my breasts. I had these areas of precancer cells removed in 2008 (Lumpectomy) from my breasts. I hope you let us know what your doctor and radiologist think would be a good course of action. You are not alone with feelings of fear, anxiety and sudden bouts of panic. Please let us know how you make out.

Moderators

Dear AnnieB26

So sorry to hear of your mother and your extended diagnosis. Further biopsies will give you a better structure to build your treatment plan upon and in the meantime, you have a chance to become as informed as possible so that you understand the pros and cons of options before doctor appointments where they expect decisions.

Waiting is hard, but it does give research time.

Keep us informed and our best wishes go out to you.

The Moderators.

AnnieB26

Thank you roadrash and Moderators for responding. I haven't heard anything today yet. I'm back at work this week, which is keeping me occupied. I'm also busy documenting, and gathering records and scans, so that if I need to get a second opinion after biopsy results are in, I will be ready.

AnnieB26

I heard back finally (Feb 6th) from the surgeon about his consult with the radiologist.  They scheduled an MRI guided biopsy for two places on my left breast.  They scheduled it for February 26th (three weeks out).  I have actually been maintaining fairly well up until now.  Now that it is one week away, thoughts and panics are creeping  back in again.  Of course once you know that there is a high possibility of malignancy, one has reasonable/unreasonable thoughts of three weeks, is it spreading?  Luckily the breast MRI did not show any issues in the lymph nodes, but how long does it take to move there?  The surgeons nurse "reassured" me that it takes a long time to get to the lymph nodes.   I'm preparing ahead of time to get a second opinion (collecting medical records etc.).  Thankfully my insurance covers 2nd opinions.  I just want to know so I can move forward.  Not too happy with their minimal communication.

Moderators

Dear AnnieB26, glad you have your MRI biopsy scheduled but sorry for the wait - everyone here knows the dreaded waiting for scans/results feelings. It is great news that the first MRI didn't show node involvement.

All the best for bioposy results.

The Mods