Weird PET scan results

Roxanne218

I recently had a PET scan (because of a melanoma diagnosis in Feb). Results were somewhat strange regarding my right breast. It said there is a "7mm focal point with slightly increased activity on the right breast, 2.6 max SUV." I went on to have a mammogram and ultrasound, with absolutely nothing found on either test. Now it's recommended that I get a Breast MRI, which I'm not looking forward to at all because of claustrophia plus a chance of a false positive leading to an unnecessary biopsy. I wonder how much I should worry about this breast lesion (if there really is one) possibly being breast cancer. The 2.6 scan reading I got is barely abnormal (as I've read online), plus I've read that PET scans can often have false positives due to inflammation, trauma, etc. (MRIs are even more sensitive with more false positives than the scans.) I'm wondering too why the mammogram and ultrasound didn't find a thing, especially since I don't have very dense breasts. I've been having aching once in a while in the right breast, but especially after I remove my bra for the night or sleep on the right side for too long. Has anyone here had this same situation where the tests don't show anything after the PET scan does? Is there some other test I can do instead of the MRI? Or maybe wait till my next PET scan in 6 or 12 months to see if it's still there? Is the MRI really worth it after having both mam. and US? Thanks for reading.

greetings1

I am sorry that I don't have answers to your questions, but MRIs aren't too bad because you are on your belly so you don't really notice that you are in the machine. I just imagine that I am laying down waiting for a massge.

Meg101

I had an MRI guided biopsy which confirmed the cancer in my left breast. Other scans couldn't pinpoint the exact spot to get an accurate biopsy. I understand how frustrating all the scans, xrays, and tests can be. In addition to being expensive (even with insurance), they are time consuming and uncomfortable, but necessary to get the right diagnosis. Please keep us posted so we can guide through these frustrations. This is a good place to vent ;-)

Meg101

Meg101

Roxanne - Whatever you do, don't put the MRI off until later. Mammograms are not reliable, and PET scan can show too many suspicious areas. The MRI will give you the most accurate reading. If you do have a malignancy, the sooner it's treated and/or removed, the better. Wishing you the best. Meg

Moderators

Roxanne, welcome to our community, and you seem to be getting very good suggestions from other members!

You may find this page helpful, regarding MRIs. We're all here for you!

Lula73

Roxanne- yes, you can have something going on in the breast that mammogram and ultrasound don’t pick up. MRI is much more sensitive. And the mri biopsy is not bad at all. My mammo and ultrasound showed micro calcifications in left breast and right breast was clear. Had MRI 2 weeks later and it picked up 1.2cm Cancer on the right side. That MRI saved my life. That PET scan may have just saved yours.

Roxanne218

Thanks so much to those who responded to my post. Your helpful advice is so appreciated!!