Explanation of report

Janelbell

hi, new here. Just had my first mammo. Turned 40 this year so thlught I would get a base line done. Also, got a thermography done because initially i wanted to avoid the mammo for a while but decided to jist do both. Anyway, got one done and got a call for additional testing needed. My report seems vague compared to others or maybe its just what it is they dont know. Any clarification on what it means. It does not give shape, or locarion or maybe it does and i dont understand. Its all new. I do have an untrasound next wednesday. The waiting will drive me crazy though. Here is my report:

INDICATION FOR EXAMINATION: Z12.31: Encounter for screening mammogram for malignant neoplasm of breast.

HISTORY: This is a 40 years-old Female with a reported family history of breast cancer in her maternal grandmother in her 80s.

COMPARISONS: None available, baseline exam.

TECHNIQUE: 2-D and 3-D tomosynthesis images of both breasts were obtained in the CC and MLO projections. A single 2-D left IMF view was also obtained.

Computer aided detection (CAD) was used to assist in the interpretation of the 2D mammogram.

BREAST COMPOSITION:
The breast density is almost entirely fatty.

FINDINGS:
Right:
There are no masses, architectural distortions, or calcifications to suggest malignancy.

Left:
Within the retroareolar breast at posterior depth there is a 3 cm circumscribed isodense mass (CC 25, MLO 32).
There are no suspicious calcifications or areas of architectural distortion.

ASSESSMENT:
BI-RADS CATEGORY (0) INCOMPLETE: needs additional imaging evaluation.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
Left: Diagnostic breast ultrasound
Right Routine screening mammogram in 1 year

B-A-P

While not being a Doctor, it appears they see a mass in the left breast, but from the way they describe it, it appears pretty innocent. Could be a cyst. With the lack of detail in the report and lack of a BIrads score, it's hard to say. But it's wonderful they are following up to get a better look. I know it's hard not to worry, but circumscribed and no suspicious calcifications , is a good thing as far as I understand it.

Moderators

Hi Janelbell, and welcome to Breastcancer.org,

We're sorry for the concerns that bring you here, but we're glad you're being diligent about your breast health! Please know it's extremely common to have further testing done after your first mammogram. Being your first, you don't have a "baseline" to compare any findings to to see if any spots are new or changing, so many times anything that looks like it might be suspicious in a first mammogram will get a call back for further investigation. You have great doctors looking out for you, so hang in there and stay positive!

Please keep us posted with what you find out!

--The Mods

bcincolorado

Hi Janebell,

I just finished my screening with a 3D mamo and still needed to go back for ultrasound as well. That was done today. A rating of zero means they do not have enough information to make a determination yet. With mine, the radiologist actually came in to take another look after it was done and they had shown to her. She wanted to look for herself. Dense tissues is my issue. Worst part was getting up super early to get there today. Best wishes.

LivinLife

Want to welcome you janel! I agree with the others about BIRADS 0 meaning not enough info to determine anything. The waiting is very difficult - take good care of you during this waiting. You should get helpful info after the ultrasound..... Best!