Waiting to get a Diagnostic Mammogram and nervous

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SRW
SRW Member Posts: 14
edited January 2018 in Not Diagnosed But Worried

I am currently waiting to get a diagnostic mammogram and possible ultrasound after. I have had issues with fibrostic breast tissue in the past, However, my right breast has significant tissue thickening and nipple discharge. Has anyone dealt with this before? I am sure it is benign, but can't help to worry.


I forgot to add that my doctor said there is inflammation as well. My prolactin levels are normal as well.

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  • djmammo
    djmammo Member Posts: 2,939
    edited October 2017

    SRW

    What color is the discharge? From one breast or both? Did you happen to find discharge in your clothing one day or do you have to express the discharge manually to see it ?

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    djmammo

    the discharge is clear. I notice it in my bra, only once did I see it come out after a shower. It's only one breast and it's not in large amounts. I also have a discoloration on the top of my areola where two buldging veins lead to with a small pebble sized lump.

  • djmammo
    djmammo Member Posts: 2,939
    edited October 2017

    SRW

    We worry about red and clear discharge, if it is unilateral and spontaneous so you will need imaging evaluation.

    Not sure the discoloration or visible veins are related. Discharge is usually caused by a tiny growth in the duct, not usually palpable in my experience. We can often show the growth on US, and on mammogram if the growth is calcified or the duct is obstructed and dilated. if nothing is seen on mammo or US they may recommend a ductogram which is a more specific test to find growths within the ducts.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    A growth in the duct can still be benigncorrect? I am only 29 and I do not feel as though it's cancerous.

    I am scheduled for a diagnostic mammogram Friday at 10am. I hope to find the root of the cause then. They have also scheduled an ultrasound for after the mammogram if the radiologist decides one is needed. The discharge does only come from one duct ( I believe). I will be happy to get some answers.

  • djmammo
    djmammo Member Posts: 2,939
    edited October 2017

    SRW

    Most times its a benign papilloma but they are always removed and examined for atypia or less often evidence of papillary carcinoma.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    I will be happy with any benign cause. Nothing has been discussed with me as far as thoughts on what the issue is. I feel that is a great sign, but I am happy they are looking into it. Thank you for your help! I will post results of my test as soon as I am able.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    sorry I think I may have posted this in the wrong section. I have just found the benign section.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    Had a mammogram and ultra sound this morning. I was told they can feel a palpable lump but they cannot see it on the ultrasound. My right breast is to dense to see in the mammogram. I was told to keep an eye on the lump and come back in 3 months.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    Talked with my OBGYN and the radiologist has recommended a ductogram. I am being referred to a breast specialist for more testing.

  • CIW
    CIW Member Posts: 76
    edited October 2017

    Sending you lots of good thoughts, SRW! I am glad you're going to get the ductogram to be sure.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    Thank you CIW!

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    Still waiting on the surgeons office to call me for an appointment.

  • djmammo
    djmammo Member Posts: 2,939
    edited October 2017

    SRW

    Any of your docs can order the ductogram, the exam does not require a surgical consult first. Our breast surgeon was only too glad to be sent only those pt's that have already had abnormal imaging.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    My Gynocologyst wanted me to see the surgeon for further testing on top of the ductogram if needed. They did call me today and set up an appointment for the 26th.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    I'm not sure why she wanted to refer me. She just said my breast issues needed to be investigated. I am new to this and not sure what the normal is.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    Had my appointment today. She can feel a milk duct in my areola, she thinks it might be clogged. She could not express and discharge for a sample. She wants me to do hot compress on my breast to see if the swollen duct/blockage will correct its self. She did find a palpable enlarged lymph node on my chest wall under my breast, she said she wants to keep an eye on it and see if it was visible on my imaging. So now I wait and see what happens.

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited October 2017

    I forgot to add about the thickening. It is palpable but it is not seen on mammogram or ultra sound. I didn't really get an answer as to what it is. I feel a bit confused, my breast keeps changing and I have no answers

  • SRW
    SRW Member Posts: 14
    edited January 2018

    Had my three month check up. Swelling in the breast has went down some but now there is a palpable mass. Also a mass on my chest wall under breast. Back to the ultrasound I go on Friday.

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