Scar Tissue from Breast Explantation Surgery OR Cancer

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sarah73
sarah73 Member Posts: 3

I recently developed an inverted nipple after my pet stepped on my nipple. I went for a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy because radiologist suspected cancer. The radiologist who conduced my biopsy said it could be scar tissue in the nipple duct. But the biopsy came back that it was cancer. I've just gone for an MRI to determine margins so breast surgeon can decide whether to do a lapendectomy or masctectomy. Aside from the obvious nervousness and anxiety ... I am constantly wondering if the biopsy is absolutely accurate and what they are seeing is cancer and NOT scar tissue left from the explantation surgery done 15 years ago. I remember the Doctor telling me that she had to remove more breast tissue when she did the explanation with this breast that I am having problems with. I cannot find any information on this particular situation. Does any one know? I will be seeing my Doctor in a week but am looking for a possibiility that the biopsy is really showing scar tissue and not cancer. There is no lymph node involvement.

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  • edwards750
    edwards750 Member Posts: 3,761
    edited May 2018

    Idk Sarah except my SIL had scar tissue. She had to be monitored multiple times to ensure there wasn’t a stray cancer cell around that became cancerous.

    From what I’ve read biopsies are pretty accurate but that’s not to say they could not be misread by the radiologist.

    Of course for your sake I hope it turns out to be scar tissue.

    Also,I had a PA freak out when multiple lung nodules showed up on my chest X-ray. She said it could be scar tissue but recommended I go to the Cancer Clinic where I had my surgery done. I told her I would wait until I saw the radiologist’s report. She didn’t like that at all and assured me he would agree with her. He didn’t. No evidence of any lung issues.

    I’m just saying doctors aren’t infalliable so there is a possibility it might not be cancer.

    Keep us posted. Try not to worry.

    Diane

  • sarah73
    sarah73 Member Posts: 3
    edited May 2018

    Thankyou Diane for responding. As you know, getting diagnosed is one of the worst experiences anyone can go through. The days are filled with tears and constant worry and wondering. The waiting makes is worst. I'm not sure how I will determine whether it is scar tissue or cancer; but what I do know at this point in time is that my Doctor wants to begin chemo to shrink the mass before surgery. I will be emotionally scarred if after the chemo therapy I find that it was just scar tissue. Wish I could know for sure. I'll keep you posted and thank you again for taking the time to respond to me. Sarah

  • edwards750
    edwards750 Member Posts: 3,761
    edited May 2018

    Wish I could be more help Sarah. It sounds like your doctor is pretty sure it's cancer otherwise why would he be removing the mass?

    Radiologists can only speculate even though they have the experience and expertise to spot cancer. The biopsy though is the determining factor. I don't blame you for wondering. You could always get a second opinion then you would know for sure.

    Keep the faith and let me know.

    Diane


  • sarah73
    sarah73 Member Posts: 3
    edited May 2018

    Thank you Diane. The only reason I question is because I did read that even on a biopsy scar tissue from a previous surgery (my breast explantation surgery) can "mimic" cancer.

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