I initially had a lumpectomy for DCIS - estimated at 4mm. It was found to be 13mm - no lymph node involvement. Pathology also found an incidental lobular tumour (25 mm) so a second lumpectomy. All clear and taking Anastrozole and about to start 5 days of radiotherapy. Now I am asking if I can have MRI’s as the lobular tumour wasn’t picked up by mammograms or biopsies . Has anyone else been successful in going down this path and did it show any further tumours?
Hi, I also had 2 tumours, one ductal and one lobular, which didn’t show up on mammogram. For one, I felt the lump myself and went to the doctor. As it hadn’t shown up on mammogram I was offered an MRI scan which showed up the other tumour. Having had 2 x lumpectomies and radiotherapy, I’ve been offered annual MRI scans. I would really push your consultant for that - you have a good reason to ask!
Thanks for your reply. I’ve spoken to the breast care nurse who will raise my concern with my surgeon and oncologist . Hopefully they will agree to the MRI scans.
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I have a lobular which did not show on two mammograms one year apart in 2020 and now a recurrence (23mm) in same breast under the nipple (had a nipple soaring mastectomy with wide margins and silicone implant reconstion) which did not even show on whole body PET-CT. Recurrence was only picked up visually when I went for a private second opinion after being dismissed by my existing consultant. The MRI scan I had had as part of these investigations was requested without contrast dye so it was only to investigate the status of the implant and I only found out about this when I turned up for the MRI. Then as the PET-CT did not show anything. I did not think this was another thing worth arguing about.
I find this all very scary. A couple of years ago, I found a template letter on Lobular UK, which I passed to my oncologist and which made the case for MRI follow-ups in occult lobular breast cancer. My oncologist insisted there was no evidence for better outcomes with MRI follow-up and my request was declined.
Well done you for taking this up. Let us know if you have any success.
All the best.
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Hi Kasper
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Jane
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Thanks for your reply . I’m new to the forum and wasn’t quite sure where to post it. However I’d be glad of your opinion on this topic. Thanks
Hi @Milly_Molly_1 (and everyone else!)
The Royal College of Radiologists (which my surgeon referenced to me) does say that MRI can be considered for post-cancer screening where the original was not detected by mammogram. I have included the link, and a screenshot of the relevant section from the guidance. I wonder if you’d feel comfortable mentioning this to your oncologist?
This guidance is pending update - it will be interesting to see whether this is expanded at all.
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Hi kasper,
Thanks for posting.
As your lobular breast cancer did not show up on mammograms when you were diagnosed, it’s natural to wonder if a breast MRI scan would be a better test for your follow up.
How you’re followed up after your hospital based treatment finishes depends on your individual situation. You’ll usually be offered regular mammograms depending on the type of surgery you’ve had.
Any exception to this would be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on your personal situation as mentioned by others who have replied to you. A breast MRI scan in addition to mammograms, is sometimes offered if additional screening is considered necessary.
As indicated by @sunlover100, we would also suggest that you contact your treatment team to discuss your situation.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
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Best wishes
Eve
Breast Care Nurse
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