I am scared!

lover,

Let me clear up one thing. I don't think that you weren't “well received". Many of us try to lower the anxiety level of those who are worried and waiting on testing by putting it in perspective. Yes, even thinking that you might have bc can be scary but sometimes new members jump to the worst possible scenarios (catastrophizing) when they have almost no facts to justify that. Not saying that's what you did but there is little value in encouraging a new members anxiety. *
Can things be missed on imaging? Yes, but with multiple means of imaging, mammo, ultrasound or MRI, plus manual examination, it would be unlikely and IDC, unlike ILC, is less likely to be missed. Comparing yourself to someone else may be comforting but is ultimately pointless since we are all so different.

You say you are terrified and can't enjoy life and I can understand to some extent but all the info you've received so far is favorable! As my mother often said, “Don't borrow trouble!" I hope the breast surgeon can help you out and lower your anxiety level. Take care.

*The vast majority of bco members have already been dx'ed with various types and stages of bc. Encouraging health anxiety is simply bad for your health. This a very good reason to maintain some perspective

PS: I just re-read your earlier thread and suggest that you re-read it as well. No one posted anything that could be interpreted as not “ well received”, but we were being honest about your situation. As adults, we understand truth is what everyone deserves even if it is uncomfortable to hear. Not being upfront doesn’t make a health condition disappear. Do take very good care of yourself

LoverofJesus, it is sometimes impossible to ignor fear that to other seem irrational, so what is important is not to ignor it, but rather to deal with it in a rational way. I know, it sounds like a paradox. But here are a few thinks that were going through my mind after I read your post. Since you cannot stay away from Google, (I couldn't either) it would be best to make a list with all the conditions you come across and you worry that they might apply to you. Present them at your appointment with your surgeon and have them explain why none of them is relevant in your case. This way you would gain assurance from a specialist and that will put your mind at ease. You might also want to ask your surgeon about the difference between a mammogram, an US and even an MRI and when are they recommended (in your case for dense breasts). All that to say that you need to take a deep breath, exhale and trust that you will get your answers soon. Best of luck! (((Gentle hugs)))

Hi, I have had fibrocystic, dense, breast tissue all of my life. At first my MO wondered why I didn't feel the lump until she did a breast exam. Sometimes they still seem to change daily! Weight gain/loss and fluid retention can add to your issues. Do you have children? Did you breast feed? All that can make your breast sag. I have always had one breast that was larger than the other. Your consultation with the breast surgeon will hopefully answer all your questions. 3D mammo is always uncomfortable and I'm usually in some discomfort for a few days, but it is so worth it to have some piece of mind. Sending best wishes your way!

I don't think that you weren't well received. I honestly don't know how to respond though. I certainly did not have what you are describing with puckering or red spots. It sounds like you need further reassurance from a medical professional. And possibly some help with anxiety. With so much anxiety it could be a never ending cycle of constantly worrying over nothing. Even if you are told again after this next appointment that it is nothing to be concerned about, will you be able to accept that? I can tell you after being diagnosed with triple negative and then later on ER +, I too have moments of panic. You have to live your life though. Don't let these thoughts take over your life! I promise I say this all in kindness. Let us know how your next appointment goes 😊.

I have to ask, where are you located that the BS does the ultrasound and also the biopsy? That's kind of an odd one-stop business. And being able to eyeball a tissue sample with the naked eye and say it didn't look like cancer? I'm sorry, but there are red flags, flashing lights, and screaming sirens all over that doctor.

Hmm, usually interventional radiologists do biopsies; it takes specialized training, and they do not guess about tissue or at least discuss it with the patient before it's been examined by the pathologist. And ultrasounds are done by people who have specialized training in that field. I've come across some horrible doctors who have been in business for decades. Longevity doesn't equal excellence. Some of the ones who've been practicing for years don't stay current with best practices.

Agreed on radiologists being the experts with these kinds of things....