How long to wait for MRI after Radiation?

brittonkb

I finished five weeks of radiation a little over 2 months ago. The original plan for me was to alternate MRIs and Mammograms every 6 months. I had a mammo in the fall and was scheduled to have an MRI this week. My RO is suggesting I wait up to a year after radiation to have the MRI. Wondering if anyone else has had the same experience and, if so, how long did you wait to have an MRI? My tumor was not detected through normal mammography screenings so it makes me nervous to wait

Salamandra

I went back and looked now. I finished radiation in mid January. After that I had I think just manual exams until my first follow-up mammogram in September and MRI in December. I don't remember having any concerns about it at the time so I didn't ask my doctor about the scheduling.

kathabus

I didn't have a mammogram until 6 months after radiation (January). And then 6 months after that I get the MRI (this coming July). Similar to Salamandra. In a weird way, I would be nervous to get it too quickly. If there is microscopic stuff it might not show anyway, right? I personally think a year after radiation seems reasonable. We'll see what others say.

(PS...My RO had nothing to do with recommending future screenings. Has your breast surgeon/MO chimed in on this? Not that the suggestion is wrong...just for peace of mind...)

brittonkb

Thanks for your feedback! I am at a large center and all the doctors work collaboratively. That being said, my breast surgeon examined me and thought it would be ok for me to get my MRI soon rather than waiting until next year. It is now scheduled for June and my next mammo for early Dec. I feel much better!

kathabus

Oh good! That will help you to enjoy your summer.