I need some clarification. I had my routine 3d mammogram that came back showing new asymmetry on the left side. They recommended an ultrasound. Ultrasound showed nothing that could explain the mammogram findings, so they are recommending an MRI. I would not be too concerned, other than the fact that a few days ago I noticed some bleeding from that same nipple. Should I be concerned or is this pretty routine to also get an MRI?
Hi teach4th
It’s natural to wonder whether an MRI is routine following your recent recall from breast screening or whether you should be concerned.
Breast screening is used to look for cancer that may be too small to see or feel. If an abnormality is seen on a mammogram, it’s important for doctors to try and find out what has caused this and whether this is breast cancer. Sometimes abnormalities are caused by the overlapping of breast tissue which produces a change in the appearance of the breast tissue or by benign (not cancer) conditions.
You don’t say whether the team you’ve seen at the breast unit are aware of your symptom of bloody nipple discharge. However, it’s important to report this to the breast team.
Doctors use different imaging methods to help make a diagnosis both when there are symptoms and areas of change on a mammogram. Ultrasound is often used to do this in the first instance, but it’s not unusual for an MRI scan to be used as another way of doing this especially if nothing can be seen using the ultrasound or further clarification is needed.
You might find it helpful to call our helpline to talk this through a bit more, or ask 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
Catherine
Breast Care Nurse
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