Interpreting My Ductogram Report

catth

I have had a diagnostic mammogram and an ultrasound for unilateral, single duct, spontaneous bloody nipple discharge. The mammogram was negative and the ultrasound showed a suspicious area, but a core needle biopsy failed to explain the persistent discharge. My doctor then ordered a ductogram, and I am worried about the results. I have been referred to a breast surgeon for consultation and probable surgery, but in the meantime my mind keeps going to all the "what-ifs."

The report states that it is abnormal galactography of the right breast. Multiple filling defects are seen within ectatic and dilated ducts beginning approximately 2 cm posterior to the nipple in the retroareolar right breast and continuing up to 5 cm posterior to the nipple within the retroareolar right breast. There is at least one abnormally truncated dilated duct approximately 2.3 cm posterior to the nipple.

My questions are:

Do multiple filling defects as described above have a greater chance of being cancer?

Can an older postmenopausal woman (age 68) have papillomatosis? I have read it usually occurs in younger women.

What causes a truncated dilated duct ?

I know the only definitive answer will come with a pathology report, but I am hoping you can shed some light on the possibilities of what all this could likely mean. It's hard not to think about it. Thank you!