Possible recurrence DCIS

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ashaby
ashaby Member Posts: 278
edited June 2014 in DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)
Possible recurrence DCIS
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  • ashaby
    ashaby Member Posts: 278
    edited December 2007

    I had to schedule a stereotactic biopsy today from a bad mammo which happens Jan 22. I had finished radiation, had 3 lumpectomies, 2 mri's and a partridge in a pear tree.

    I'm looking for others who have had what feels like an unending saga with DCIS for support. Thanks. Basha

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  • Beesie
    Beesie Member Posts: 12,240
    edited December 2007

    Basha, is it the same breast?

    I really hope that it's not a recurrence.  If could be, of course, but it also could be run-of-the-mill benign calcifications.  A few weeks after the calcifications in my right breast were found to be DCIS, as part of all the testing before my surgery, a mammogram on my left breast uncovered a new cluster of calcifications there.  I figured I was doomed - that these would be DCIS too.  But these turned out to be harmless calcifications, the type that 60% of women eventually get.  So I know from experience that just because you've had some calcifications that are DCIS doesn't mean that all the calcifications you have will be DCIS. 

    Fingers & toes crossed for you.  Here's hoping for benign results!

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  • vlorsong
    vlorsong Member Posts: 36
    edited December 2007

    Ashaby-

    Can definitely relate to your concern.  I had my first mammo since surgery/treatment in Sept.  It showed microcalcifications in the same area as the 1st go round.  Radiology categorized it as a Cat.4.  I had stereotactic done and results were benign.  I have since learned that it is not unusual to have calcifications after radiation.  Hope you have the same results.  I certainly understand what you're going through-it sometimes feels like a nightmarish merry-go-round we can't get off!  It took me a while to move on and not worry about every little ache and pain-it takes a while and no one can tell you what you should feel or for how long! I just had to find my own way and the information and advice on this site is simply invaluable.  The surgeon wants a follow up mammogram this month to see where things stand.  I would love to just be done with it but my better judgment tells me to keep up with the doc apts. even though I don't want to.

    Please know that you're not alone-that is the beauty of this web site. I hope all works out and please let us know how it goes. I will certainly be thinking about you.

    Try to have a wonderful Holiday!

    best-

    Veronica

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  • Gulfwater
    Gulfwater Member Posts: 177
    edited December 2007

    Basha, I was diagnosed with DCIS five years ago in November '02 in the left breast.  While going through rads in January and February '03, I told the rad techs I'd probably see them again before too long.  I knew I was going to need another biopsy in the other breast and fully expected it to be . . . well, hopefully nothing more than DCIS again.  I had the biopsy in early May.  It was a benign fibroadenoma.  Then in November '05 I had another biopsy due, like the reason for all my other biopsies, a suspicious microcalcification cluster.  Again -- benign. 

    So even after a diagnosis, you can have benign biopsy results.  Try not to worry too much yet. 

    Mary D.

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  • ashaby
    ashaby Member Posts: 278
    edited December 2007

    Hi Beesie, Thanks for your comments. Yeah it's the same breast right near the scar site. Like you I had a large excision; 2 actually, and I am so unhappyy with the thought of a mastectomy. But if it spins out that way, of course I will. I'm pretty tough overall, but waiting does me in.

    Thanks again.

    Basha

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  • AnnieMc
    AnnieMc Member Posts: 17
    edited December 2007

    Basha,

    I am sorry you are having to worry about this.  I always found the uncertainty with BC to be extremely difficult and stressful.

    My original diagnosis was a stage 1a DCIS/IDC.  Almost exactly one year after radiation, I was diagnosed with recurrent DCIS (same side 1.1 cm).  I had a single mastectomy and immediate reconstruction - lat flap and small implant.  When I received my exchange surgery, I also had a lift of my other breast.   I do remember thinking that all of this would never end.  

    That was two years ago this December.  I feel great and I am happy with my reconstruction.  I believe that the waiting between the biopsy and the mastectomy - when I found out the questionable area was all DCIS and not invasive  - was by far the most stressful part for me.  I have had no real problems with my recovery or reconstruction.    

    Chances are you do not have a recurrence.  Radiation does cause changes to the breast tissue.   Again, I am sorry you have to deal with this.

    Good luck to you,

    Anne

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  • Barbie7
    Barbie7 Member Posts: 386
    edited December 2007

    Basha,

    I cannot speak to the recurrance, but I will keep you in my thoughts.  As so many others have said, it very well could be just another benign area due to radiation or normal breast changes.  The waiting game stinks, but hopefully you'll find comfort in support found here.  All my best.

    Barbie

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  • ashaby
    ashaby Member Posts: 278
    edited December 2007

    Hi Dears,

    I seem to have reached a new place of calm today. I realized I can drive myself crazy for 3 weeks or live my life.



    I ski almost every day (southern VT), nap whenevr I feel like it, and cuddle in with the people I love.

    Thanks for your support and chocolate helps ALOT, Layne.

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