Flat epithelial atypia (FEA) found on needle core biopsy

KB1968

Hi everyone,

I'm brand new to this forum. Hopefully, one of you out there can shed some light on my questions and concerns. I'm 55 and have always had normal mammograms every 2 years. In early November, my mammogram showed some "suspicious" clustering of microcalcifications. The radiologist recommended stereotactic needle core biopsy. I just got the results. Bottom line: no DCIS or malignancy but I do have FEA. My doctor is referring me to a breast centre to see a surgeon for excision. I'm not scared of the procedure, just the possibility that these cells could come back and lead to cancer. Is the excision done as a day surgery or is it under general anaesthesia? Does anyone have any info to share? Thanks for listening

Moderators

Hi KB-

Typically, if the excision area is small and close enough to the surface of your breast, the procedure will be done as outpatient with a local anesthetic; however, depending on the size of the area the surgeon is removing, you may opt for general anesthesia, for your own comfort level. Your surgeon will go over all of your options with you when you meet and discuss the procedure. Have you discussed the possibility of the cells returning with your doctor, or what, if any, monitoring you'll undergo? These are questions you'll want to ask, so you have all the information available to you to make the best decisions for yourself!

The Mods

Sanduchi

Hi KB-

Any update on your question? Have you met with anyone yet? I just wanted to share my experience.

I also had FEA on a CNB, but mine is a palpable lump rather than calcification. After finally switching to a BS who actually CARED about patients (another story-Oy!), we decided to schedule an excisional biopsy/lumpectomy. I use the "/" because my breast surgeon said that due to the atypical cells, she wants to take some layers of tissue out around the lump just to make sure there is nothing lurking around the lump.

Can't give you any details about the actual procedure as I only have my pre-op on Friday, but I wanted to chime in as there aren't many of us FEA people out there!

Hope you have some answers!

KB1968

Thank you to the moderators and Sanduchi for your replies. My surgeon ultimately decided that he would not go in to excise as most or all of the calcifications were removed during the biopsy. I am to follow up with him every 6 months and repeat the mammogram. I am very fortunate. I appreciate all the support from you wonderful ladies. It means the world to me to have a safe place to talk about this.Thanks again!