Hello
I am been stalking this forum since I found out I had a suspicious routine Mammogram. Went back for compression films and the “suspected developing” mass not there but a cluster of calcifications were. Underwent a stereotactic mammogram biopsy today and will get results in a few days…I was expecting a phone call but I have to go in…which makes me suspicious they know it is a problem
First of all…for those users who are waiting with great anxiety for the biopsy…it was not nearly as bad as I was anticipating. I was sitting up and the rad tech and nurse went to great lengths to insure my comfort. They assured me at any time if I was feeling pain they would stop and give more lidocaine. Not needed. Very slight pin prick at beginning with a very short little burn then nothing. Yes you feel pressure of mammogram plates but while uncomfortable I was never in pain. Took 5 samples and placed a marker. Its a bit noisy but nurse was very close by explaining everything. I am 5 hours out now and have a very slight ache but nothing more. I probably read every experience I could find on this site and I know others had issues but I never felt it was traumatic or difficult…actually thankful for the amazing technology to catch things this early.
So now my next round of anxiety…if I hear its not benign…what happens next. I know these calcifications are in the duct. (per radiologist)…but can they tell cancer cell type immediately? I know I will see a surgeon but what decisions do I need to prepare for? Rad tech seemed to indicate even if not benign its very early. Does cell type determine yes or no for chemo? Thanks for any feedback…I actually feel soooo much better that this biopsy is behind me…and trying to prepare emotionally for next step
You say you have been stalking the forums so you will know what a lovely supportive community we are.
The biopsy will tell the team what type of cells are present, if they are benign or not, and if not, what type they are.
Your surgeon will have a plan based on the findings. If they are benign there will still be a treatment plan. Depending on the location and size there might be options offered around reconstruction if you need surgery.
Your surgeon will also discuss what treatment, if any, you might need, such as chemotherapy. I was told that the type of cells they found meant I needed a short cycle of chemotherapy alongside injections that would be given every three weeks.
If possible have someone else with you at your appointment to listen and maybe take notes. There will also be a breast care nurse there for you, they can help explain anything you are unsure of and will be your contact for any questions you think of afterwards.
Thank you so much for your reply. I feel like I have been thrown in the deep end with so much information. I could spend a week just learning all the acronyms! This forum is a great opportunity to familiarize myself for what may lie ahead. Appreciate your time.
Hello, know just how you are feeling. I was diagnosed with high grade DCIS & calcification following my routine mammogram in 2023. Obviously they only do a biopsy if there is something that looks suspicious but I think they have to take time to thoroughly examine the sample before giving a detailed diagnosis. I had another biopsy 20 years ago and was asked back to be given the results even though that time it was good news.
This time I was told I had to have a mastectomy (when I was told the results) because of the DCIS grade and large area it covered.
It is very useful to have someone with you when you get the results and also when you see the surgeon. They can take notes & ask questions you may not think of as well as support you through an emotional experience. Having my dear friend with me was a great help.
Fortunately the mastectomy meant I was cancer free and no further treatment was required. I actually cried more then than when I got the diagnosis.
I hope all goes well for you.
Hello by130 !
Only just a quick shout out over to you. I totally hear you… im a mum of a 28 year old daughter, who was just diagnosed with grade3 breast cancer- many results still pending- . Like yoiu, we are fully overwhelmed with all that info and all the strange medical terms. Whilst reading through so many posts from women on here, i always think- my goodness, these ladies have so much knowledge and understand so so many complicated and complex dfifferent things …saying that…reading your long first note, i did think that too i thought, gosh this lady only got throwen into this and is fully with it!!! This is such an incredible place/forum on here… the support and no mattee what approach is incredible ! So you definitely will find tonns of support and shared knowledge here
I wish you all the best for your journey but most of all strength to see this through… never stop fighting…never give up hope !!
T
i thought, gosh this lady only got throwen into this and is fully with it!!! This is such an incredible place/forum on here… the support and no mattee what approach is incredible ! So you definitely will find tonns of support and shared knowledge here 