Question re: frequency of biopsies and calcifications

Explanation of breast calcifications here

AML,have you been offered other imaging options? Are you getting 3D mammos? I would also ask about the potential scar tissue that the biopsies may be causing and if that would make future imaging more difficult. Have you had U/S's and MRI's? Best wishes for benign results!:) Keep asking until you get the answers you need!

Hello, I'm Liz in Canada and was diagnosed with BC in Jan/18. Lumpectomy end of March, rads, TM. Went for my routine screening end of October and had to return for a biopsy. We knew my 'healthy' breast was riddled with calcifications but now there is some concern about a specific area. During the biopsy the radiologist inserted a 2mm 'surgical marker' which I was told makes it easier for the surgeon to find if pathology determines the area to be malignant. My question is do they only insert a marker if they have a strong suspicion that there is cancer present in the breast? I am running on empty as my Mum is nearing the end of her life journey and I am hardly sleeping between trying to keep up with life and comfort Mum. It just can't be cancer again. I just need more time before I can face it again. Any guidance would be so very much appreciated. Yours, Liz

canadaliz et al

The biopsy marker placement is a routine and necessary part of the biopsy procedure. On the day of the biopsy it lets the radiologist know if the correct spot has been biopsied before the patient leaves the facility. If the biopsy is abnormal, in association with a localization wire placed by the radiologist preoperatively, it shows the surgeon exactly where the abnormality is located. When the removed breast tissue is radiographed, the presence of the marker on the images serves to document that the correct area of breast tissue was removed. Not all abnormalities are palpable and sometimes all the calcs are removed during a biopsy so without the marker there may be no way to find and remove the target. If the biopsy is benign, the marker acts as a "do not disturb" sign. It avoids you being called back for the same abnormality should you have subsequent imaging at a center that does not yet have your old studies for comparison. Since there is no visible scarring from core biopsies one cannot count on being able to tell where the prior biopsy was done without the marker. The markers come in many different shapes so that each biopsy site can be distinguished from the others on imaging. The are sterile, chemically inert, and MRI safe. Some have material that make them highly visible on US, and some have material to stop oozing at the biopsy site. If you have sensitivities to certain metals tell your doctor as they are not all titanium. Some non-metallic materials used in some markers are of animal origin so tell your doctor if you prefer to avoid animal products.

Thank you all so much for your prompt and thoughtful responses. DjMammo, thank you for such a complete review! My anxiety is now reduced knowing that, while it might be another malignancy, the marker is just a part of comprehensive care and monitoring. Thank you again, Liz

AMLMom

True linear branching calcifications can be associated with DCIS. If there is no associated mass, the likelihood of a component of invasive cancer goes down but not to zero.

Let us know what the biopsy shows, you can post the path report here if you'd like.

AMLMom

I'm sorry I don't understand your question.

AMLMom

The difference might be in the extent of dcis but if there is any fine linear branching calcification present, then one would suspect the presence of dcis.

AMLMom, you need to see a breast specialist - surgeon. If you have so many recurring biopsies, then you should demand to see a specialist. The surgery onc specialist, is the one you want to see. When they look at your results, their recommendation might be different. If you are diagnosed with DCIS, then surgery and treatment are appropriate. Some how, you need to get out of the frequent biopsy cycle.

AMLmom, the good news is that it is "in situ" and not invasive. Doctors will determine if surgery is necessary along with any anti hormonal treatment, if it is estrogen and progesterone positive. I do extremely well on Tamoxifen, and will probably take it for 10 years. It is good to have a diagnosis, I am sure. and is better than waiting every six months for it to potentially become more than it is. If you have any questions, you can message me.