puckered areola - cyst? cancer?

I haven't been on the "boards" since mid-way through chemo in the late fall/early winter of 2012.  Early 2013 was my radiation.  I've seen my onc every three months with mammograms every 6 months.  Prior to my visit to the onc two weeks ago, I noticed a puckering on the breast that had no cancer.  I pointed it out to the onc (who missed it on his exam).  After reviewing my records and seeing that I had had a mammo in January, he ordered an MRI - which was promptly refused by the insurance company. So...I had another mammogram - then an ultrasound.  After those tests, the doctor who runs the mammo clinic asked me to stay and talk to her.  She showed me the pictures and said that although she thinks it is a cyst, she is not sure exactly what it is causing the puckering. 

I finally have approval for an MRI this coming Wednesday.  I am nervous about the results.

Additionally, I just had a bone scan to address the significant pain in my hip.  I expect those results to be available by Tuesday.

Mostly, I am a bit frightened - more by the puckered areola than the hip.

As I read, I understand that some cysts contain cancerous cells - and that it is very unusual for them to do so.  However, nothing I read talks about cysts causing puckering of the skin of the breast. 

 Anyone else face this?

Thanks,

Sherrie


Comments

  • bevin
    bevin Member Posts: 1,902
    edited May 2014

    Sherrie, thinking of you and praying for benign causes for your pain and cyst.  I know someone will be along soon who has had experience like this. I just wanted to send a note of support.

  • rsdavid
    rsdavid Member Posts: 34
    edited May 2014

    Thanks, Bevin!  I appreciate the prayers.

    Sherrie

    ps. it looks like are cancers and treatments are nearly twins.  Hope you are doing well.

    sd

  • rsdavid
    rsdavid Member Posts: 34
    edited May 2014

    Okay - after fighting with the insurance company (and getting a mammogram and ultrasound first) my MRI was today.  They did not find anything...not even a cyst worth discussion.  The doc made a point that I must watch this "puckering" on my areola and report any changes.  Otherwise, no follow-up until January.  

    It is nice to put this away for awhile.  Now off to find an orthopedic doc for my hip/femur!

    thanks all - 

    Sherrie

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