Question About MRI Results

Bagsharon

Since my IDC has lobular features, an MRI was ordered. I just got the results and though they look positive, I'm confused by some of the language.

IMPRESSION:

2.1 x 1.6 x 1.5 cm rapidly enhancing mass in the anterior, medial right
breast corresponding to the patient's known carcinoma.

Negative for lymphadenopathy.

Small oval mass in the upper outer quadrant measuring 9 x 6 x 6 mm,
favored to be benign in nature however further characterization with
targeted ultrasound recommended.

Incomplete evaluation. BI-RADS category 0.

What does "rapidly enhancing" mean? And "Incomplete evaluation?"

reflect

Hi Bagsharon, sorry you find yourself here. "Rapidly enhancing" refers to the area they already know is cancer. It behaves differently than noncancer. The "small oval mass" is something they think is benign but cannot be sure. They want to do a targeted ultrasound on that area. Looks like your lymph nodes are clear which is wonderful. This is just what I think having read a zillion of these of my own. But call you doc or nurse navigator and ask your questions.

Bagsharon

Thanks reflect for your reply. I guess I should have been more specific. Does "rapidly enhancing" mean fast growing? These results were probably erroneously posted on my chart before I got the official call from my doctor so I will definitely be asking when she calls. I was just hoping somebody here had similar language in their results and could tell me what it means.

Bagsharon

Just got the call. Rapidly enhancing means it picked up the dye quickly. FYI.

reflect

I thought that but wasn't sure. But it doesn't mean the cancer is growing rapidly! Best of luck in your treatment!

IvyLeagueNP

Hi there! To help with your questions... This is my own understanding of it with some help from resources (medical journals)

Most cancers tend to grow a blood supply to the tumor to feed it/help it grow. When you get an MRI of the breast they inject you with a dye that will help them see blood supply. If an area "enhances" rapidly it means there's a decent supply of blood vessels going to the area- making it easier to see. It is something that can be expected with a cancerous growth.

BI-Rads categories go from 0 to 6... 0 means they are not able to tell if there's cancer present or not. More testing needs done. They might order and ultrasound of the other area in question to see if they can get more information.

Hope this helps and answers your question