Distortion on mammogram - could it be from biopsy 19 years ago?

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Hi,

I have a history of cysts on the right and a fibroadenoma in the left breast which was biopsied in 2005.

Recently my right breast felt cysty again so I saw the GP to ask to be referred for yet another aspiration to make me feel more comfortable.

I went to the breast clinic and had the cluster of cysts drained on the right but the ultrasound also showed a distortion in the left breast. They took 4 biopsies and put a clip in then I had another mammogram. I get the biopsy results in 2 weeks. I saw the consultant again very briefly at the end of my visit but it felt a little rushed and I didn’t ask all the questions that are now cropping up in my mind.

The consultant said that the distortion could be a result of the biopsy on the fibroadenoma in 2005. I said that it wasn’t really in the same area and he said that things can move over the years but what I’m wondering now is if the distortion IS caused by this biopsy, why wasn’t it seen on the many many mammograms and ultrasounds that I’ve had over the last 19 years? How long after a biopsy does a distortion take to form? My last mammogram was in 2022 and it wasn’t there then. I know it could be scarring from cysts but I’ve only ever had them drained on the right side, never the left.

Basically I’m having a mini panic thinking of all the benign things it could be and ruling them all out. I know that I don’t know anything yet and I need to distract myself as there’s nothing I can do at this point but I just get the feeling that the consultant (and the ultrasound technician actually) think it is probably malignant. I’m just reading between the (verbal) lines of what they said e.g. make sure we have the correct phone number for you in case we need to call you before your appointment, advising me to come off my HRT (I’m 59), and the number of samples they took etc and I can’t stop thinking about it.

Any information you can give me or opinions that you can form from all your experience would be very welcome.

Thanks in advance

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Hiya, i posted earlier this week on here about architectural distortion found on my mammogram. I already have breast cancer in that breast, so fully expecting mine to be an extension of same cancer. I had 12 samples taken. All i can say is that you definitely have cause to have distortion from previous scarring and cysts, so try not to worry too much. The majority of these cases are benign, but they have to check once its been seen. I know how hard the waiting is, but keep busy and I will keep everything crossed for you to get clear results. Good luck x

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Thank you for taking the time to reply to my post. It is most appreciated. I’m trying hard to distract myself. Sometimes I can, sometimes I can’t lol. Good luck to you too. I’m still trying to navigate my way around this forum so I’m not fully up to speed but I will look out for your posts x

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Hello

Thanks for posting.

It’s understandable you have questions and worries following your recent investigations for breast changes.

Depending on the type of biopsy this may cause distortion on a mammogram but as you say this was performed 19 years ago and hasn’t been seen on more recent mammograms. You don’t mention the type of biopsy and it sounds as though the fibroadenoma wasn’t removed.

As your consultant said, things can move over time. This may refer to breast tissue and shape changing due to natural ageing or weight fluctuations. Some things that might not have been seen on mammogram may become easier to see over time.

It can be really difficult dealing with uncertainty while waiting for results. You are not alone feeling this way as @bluesatsuma explains. This section of our forums might be helpful while you wait.

As you say distraction and keeping busy can help some people. This information about tackling your worries might also be useful.

At times like this it can help to talk to someone, so 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, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).

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Best wishes

Jane

Breast Care Nurse

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