Beyond overwhelmed with this potential

Hello

I am very new to the board. I’ve never actually even been on any type of board before. I am 41 years old and had my first mammogram in January. Bad I know, I should have gone last year. My first mammogram showed concerning findings in both breasts. The report read as follows: breasts are heterogeneously dense. BIRADS C, Calcifications in the right breast mid depth on the line behind the nipple that require additional imaging. Calcifications in the left breast that require additional imaging. BIRADS 0 incomplete requires additional imaging.

I had a more magnified mammogram several days later with the following results: One group of pleomorphic microcalcifications found on each side with additional scattered calcifications. Breast are heterogeneously dense BIRADS 4c. Bilateral

Initially I was a little in shock and heard little of what the radiologist said when he was telling me that I needed to have a guided core needle biopsy in both breasts. The hospital only does the procedure every other Tuesday therefore I was given February. 20 as a date. Again initially took it in stride but then as days passed I began to panic and then took to the evil Google. However I have been careful to only access medical journals and Reputable sites.

I’m going over the language in both of my reports there are several things that are concerning me: line behind the nipple, pleomorphic, micro as opposed to macro, Group, the 4C rating, and both breasts. I also have done several years of fertility treatments as a gestational carrier. I’m not sure if that matters.

Does anyone have any real transparent feedback for me?

I'm going through almost the same thing as you. Called back for the magnified mammogram, abnormality described as microcalcifications and pleomorphic. It seems like the BIRAD classification is rather subjective, though. My original radiologist described it as BIRAD 3, then changed to 4B, then the hospital's radiologist changed it back to 3. Keep in mind that the BIRAD number is not a diagnosis, but a recommendation to get a biopsy. I go for my biopsy on the 21st and I'll keep my fingers crossed for you as well!

It is normal to feel all these things. Many of us got prescriptions for a small amount of Ativan or Xanax to help us get through the waiting period. Distraction helps (Netflix, walks, movies, whatever helps you).

I stayed off Google except for this site, and bought a copy of the Mayo Clinic's book on breast cancer. Some other books I looked at were too overwhelming. I got an overview of the landscape of breast cancer from that book but didn't look deeply into details until I had the details of my diagnosis.

I initially pictured myself in bed with an IV saying good bye to my daughter who was leaving for school, or, worse, my daughter refusing to go. This was all so far from the reality, but the initial shock makes us picture these things. I had surgery and take a pill each morning. For some it is much harder but for many, especially with the Oncotype testing and other genomic tests that help determine treatment and often help us avoid chemo, it is not quite the nightmare pictured in our minds.

Thank you ladies. I appreciate the support. I’m definitely trying to keep myself busy until Tuesday and then I will get the results on Thursday when I meet with the surgeon. I feel so exhausted. I’m also recently separated and have three kiddos plus I’m a Clinician so I manage everyone else’s emotions and struggles all day and all night and for the past two weeks I have just wanted to have a tantrum of my own and tell everyone to solve their own problems. Lol! Instead any second I’m alone I have a meltdown. Didany of you who have children tell them? My kids definitely know something is going on. And my twelve year old son is starting to get angry with me Beciase he feeIs like I’m hiding something. I really don’t want to stress them out anymore than they are.

Naughtyboobies~The waiting is very difficult but unfortunately part of the process. Do you have a supportive friend/family member who might be able to go to the appointment(s) with you? Some people like the added support and extra ears since it is a stressful situation. Your choice. Good luck to you and remember you have a good support system here.

thank you! How do I look for someone? This is the first time I have ever been on a message board. I’m trying very hard to keep busy. I’m so exhausted and will just start crying out of nowhere.

Thank you Georgie1

Thank you so much for sharing your story Ceci,

Yesterday was my Biopsy however they were only able to do one side Because I experienced what they called vagal response and my blood pressure dropped to almost 40. It was horrrible, I was sweating, and could feel myself fading. Luckily they did the most concerning side first. I meet with the surgeon tomorrow afternoon. I’m sore and feel drained as though I’ve been hit by a truck. I had all the kids stay over night at my sisters because I didn’t know how my mental status would be. I was so physically drained from what happened immediately after the procedure that I slept the rest of the day. I will post after my appointment tomorrow. Thank you for all the support.