Breast microcalcifications disappeared during stereotactic biopsy

I had a large 4cm breast cyst (that got infected and treated by antibiotics) and whilst getting that one checked and aspirated I was also diagnosed with new 6mm microcalcifications on left breast. They were classed as M3 (uncertain but probably benign). They appeared about about 2.5 years after my last mammogram. I was told I needed a Stereotactic vacuum assisted biopsy. During this biopsy, they entered the area of concern but I felt dizzy and they stopped the procedure before taking any tissue sample to give me sometime to recover.

When they restarted they were unable to find/see the microcalcifications. Then they took new mammogram images and these images didn’t show the microcalcifications that were present half an hour ago.

I was told that there was no need to continue the biopsy since there was nothing concerning on the new images anymore and the microcalcifications must have been tiny cysts (possibly milk cysts) and they probably burst and disappeared during the procedure. I am wondering how common this finding is and if something could be missed. I am 52 with cystic and busy breasts.

Hi Cratos

Thank you for your post.

It is sounds like you would like further reassurance that all is well after what sounds like a difficult experience as a result of a breast assessment you had recently. It is natural to ask and wonder if something could have been missed and whether his happens commonly especially as the vacuum biopsy could not be carried out.

It may be worthwhile contacting the breast team where you had the attempted vacuum biopsy and the further mammogram which was reported as not concerning and it was felt that the microcalcifications must have been tiny cysts (possibly milk cysts).Tell them how you are feeling and that you need further confirmation that all is well, also you could ask what the plan going forward and whether you should have any follow up assessment. It is difficult for us to comment on individual cases, but the radiologists in the breast clinics are the best people or a member of their team to speak to as they are experts in reading mammograms and breast assessments.

It is important to continue to be breast aware although this must be difficult for you as our said in your post you have cystic and busy breasts and what happened recently was found on a screening mammogram

For more information see our booklet Know your breasts: a guide to breast awareness and screening.

Our Touch, Look and Check(TLC) messaging may also be helpful in checking for anything new or different

Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.

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Best wishes

Helen

Breast Care Nurse

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