Worried but probably overreacting, MRI query
So, I know I'm probably definitely looking too much into it, but I have some concerns about IBC, as I've noticed some things a bit out of the norm with the skin on one of my breasts, (slight dimpling and blistering, changes in nipple discharge).
I am a known hypocondriac, and I'm only 22 so I know it's probably nothing, BUT, I do have regular MRIs on my full spine for other health issues and was wondering if something WAS wrong would it come up as an incidental finding on those? Or will I need to settle these concerns with breast specific imaging?
TIA
Comments
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I'd start with my primary care doctor. Doesn't sound anything like IBC to me. I seriously doubt a spine MRI is going to be specific enough to pick up breast issues.
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I would not rely on imaging for other issues to diagnose your breast problem. MRIs are typically focused on certain areas and different modes are used to image different issues. Incidental findings are possible. If you had a very obvious lesion on your vertebrae or bone marrow signal abnormalities I would most expect most radiologists to spot it and note it, but they are more likely to miss things they are not looking for and can miss very visible things in that instance.
I had a lot of imaging of my thoracic region for back issues while I had breast cancer but before I was diagnosed. Mainly X-Rays and MRIs. The X-Rays failed to spot both the breast cancer and a lung issue because they were taken from the wrong perspective or focused in the wrong plane to image those issues. The MRI, when it imaged my breasts at all, only produces faint suggestions of breasts because it was focused on my spine. In fact, in most instances the front half if my torso was not imaged at all. One doctor remarked how narrow the technician made the field of view.
After I was diagnosed, I had a breast MRI and the cancer was only apparent in certain modes.
If you are having breast issues, they need to be addressed explicitly. You should make an appointment with a dermatologist for the blisters and a breast specialist as well.
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The breasts are not in the field of view of a spine MRI. Even if they were, significantly different imaging protocols are used for each so even if a breast cancer was present it may not be seen even if it were in the field of view.
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But I think Melissa makes sense. Start with primary care or your regular Gyn.
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