Went to the breast clinic yesterday to have a small lumpy area on my right breast checked out. I first went for the mammogram. Waited ages then to see the consultant. He was very abrupt which never helps.
The lumpiness on my right breast wasn’t anything to note, but I have had a large lump on my left breast for over 10 years. Previous ultrasounds and mammograms have revealed nothing sinister and was diagnosed as duct ectasia with lots of fibrous tissue and scarring. I had very bad mastitis with all three of my boys (youngest is now almost 9).
But yesterday, the radiologist said that there was an area of distortion or shadow which he didn’t think was there on my previous mammogram. He kept asking if I’d had any biopsies taken or any surgery. I’ve had nothing at all done, just bad mastitis. He started talking about a possible radial scar. He took 3 core biopsies and I think a FNA as well. Lots of bruising there now, but the lump feels smaller. To me, and I check every month, the lump has never changed. It is mobile and about the same size.
I’m back next Tues am for the results. My husband is a veterinary pathologist (same qualification as doctors have) so will want the full low down on lab reports etc. He is going with me.
So, I’m in that horrible limbo, and feeling very weepy
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Hi Lucy thank you for your concern on Gwen’s thread. Like you, I had more than one core biopsy and a FNA on the lymph node on 14th March. It left me bruised and sore so I imagine you are feeling a bit battered this morning. I went for my results on 24th March only to discover that the ultrasound and biopsy conflicted in their findings. On a scale of 1-5 (1being normal) My Ultrasound result was U4 and mammogram M4 so they were very concerned with the appearance of the lump. The biopsy came back at B2 which conflicted the US findings so ordered a repeat. They were happy to only repeat the biopsy on the original lump that you can see and feel which is their main area of concern.
Its a strange place to find yourself in isnt it? Im usually very outgoing, practical and controlled but have found myself withdrawn and feeling weepy too. I have 2 boys 18 and 6 and they were the first thing that flashed through my mind when they originally wanted to biopsy. I originally only told my hubby and close friend but my 18 year old overhead me talking to hubby so have told him its more than likely benign so not to worry.
I don’t have any experience about radial scar so hopefully some of the others may be able to offer more advice. When is your results appointment? Im just waiting on a phone call for mine. Feel free to come on here and express your worries or frustrations it most certainly has helped me as its easy to feel alone at this time. Love Kay xx