BREAST MASS DISCOVERED WITH CT SCAN - UPDATE 10-16-13

mopar
mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
edited October 2013 in Ovarian Cancer #1

The doctor and the PA both agree that they are 90% positive it is cancer.  Still holding the good thoughts, though.  Will hear from the lady tomorrow who will schedule a mammogram and biopsy for the same day.  Guess we'll know for sure once we get results, and then decide on a game plan, if necessary.  10% chance it is NOT cancer still gives cause for hope!

(((HUGS)))

Monika

According to my doctor yesterday evening, it is smooth and roundish, movable.  Wants me to have a stereotactic biopsy.  Will be calling a physician tomorrow to try to get in ASAP.

So, because I like to be 'informed' and 'prepared' I looked up the procedure on you-tube.  Seems pretty straight forward, but I'd love to hear from any of you who have had this procedure, your thoughts, your reactions.

Hugs to you all!

Monika

 

Hello, Ladies:

Recap:  DX in 2000 (Stage 1C), recurrance in 2006.  CT scan last week shows NED - YAY!

However, there was a notation of a 'right breast mass, 11mm, 10 o'clock position, posterior 1/3'.  I understand most of that, but if anyone can offer some advice/comfort, it would be much appreciated.  I will see my gynecologic/oncologist on Wednesday for my OVCA follow-up.  My CA125 from 3 weeks ago is 18, up from my usual 14.  Not putting too much into that, especially with the NED findings (unless it relates to the breast situation)?  Anyway, I had genetic testing - NOT positive for BRCA.  I've noticed for quite some time the posts of ladies with OVCA and then breast cancer.

So, while I wait, and wait, and wait, thought I would lean on you ladies and see what you think.

(((HUGS))) to all of you!

Monika

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Comments

  • Alexandra
    Alexandra Member Posts: 1,308
    #2
    Monika, first and foremost congrats on NED

    Mass on the CT scan could be anything: fatty deposit, benign cyst, dense tissue, calcification, etc. CT is not normally used for breast cancer diagnostics.

    If the mass was suspicios, the radiologist would've recommended breast biopsy. Did he?

    I am BRCA1+. Back in February I found a 2 cm lump in one breast and after ultrasound I was told: fatty deposit, nothing to worry about.

    Back in August mammo was clear but MRI showed "enhancement" - a shadow. It was suspicious and 2 weeks ago biopsy was done. Biopsy showed "atypical cells" but no cancer.

    Since you're BRCA negative, you chance of breast cancer is low. If I were you, for the peace of mind I would ask for breast ultrasound or even better for breast MRI.

    Hugs,

    Alexandra

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #3
    Alexandra said:

    Monika, first and foremost congrats on NED

    Mass on the CT scan could be anything: fatty deposit, benign cyst, dense tissue, calcification, etc. CT is not normally used for breast cancer diagnostics.

    If the mass was suspicios, the radiologist would've recommended breast biopsy. Did he?

    I am BRCA1+. Back in February I found a 2 cm lump in one breast and after ultrasound I was told: fatty deposit, nothing to worry about.

    Back in August mammo was clear but MRI showed "enhancement" - a shadow. It was suspicious and 2 weeks ago biopsy was done. Biopsy showed "atypical cells" but no cancer.

    Since you're BRCA negative, you chance of breast cancer is low. If I were you, for the peace of mind I would ask for breast ultrasound or even better for breast MRI.

    Hugs,

    Alexandra

    THANK YOU SO MUCH, ALEXANDRA!

    I've been checking for responses often, and I want to thank you for your consoling words.  I am due for a mammogram, but I suspect it may not be conclusive either because if have 'dense' breast tissue.  The radiologist does not recommend 'biopsy', at least the PA did not read that to me over the phone.  I will get a copy of the report on Wednesday, and see my gyn/onc as I mentioned.  Hopefully, he'll be able to clarify so succintly, as you have.  

    I'm so happy for your outcome, and hope it continues to be 'nothing'.  This sure is a merry-go-round we're on, isn't it?  I value the opinions of all you wonderful ladies here.  I think I can breathe a little easier now, after reading your response and seeing your smiling face!

    (((HUGS))) to you too!

    Monika

    P.S.  I'll post when I know something.

  • scatsm
    scatsm Member Posts: 296 Member
    #4
    Hi Monika

    I am one of the women on the board who have had both cancers but I am BRCA2. That said, there are probably many more not as yet identified gene mutations so who knows? First of all, don't panic...you don't yet know whether or not it is a cancer. Alexandra just went through that whole process only to find out it was benign. I certainly hope that for you!

    If it is breast cancer, all I can say is that there is so much more out there for breast cancer. It puts ovca in such a different category. I kept thinking that if only I didn't have the ovca, I would be feeling great about my future.

    Wishing you a positive outcome and reminding you to breathe in and out!! Waiting is the worst!!

    Susan

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #5
    scatsm said:

    Hi Monika

    I am one of the women on the board who have had both cancers but I am BRCA2. That said, there are probably many more not as yet identified gene mutations so who knows? First of all, don't panic...you don't yet know whether or not it is a cancer. Alexandra just went through that whole process only to find out it was benign. I certainly hope that for you!

    If it is breast cancer, all I can say is that there is so much more out there for breast cancer. It puts ovca in such a different category. I kept thinking that if only I didn't have the ovca, I would be feeling great about my future.

    Wishing you a positive outcome and reminding you to breathe in and out!! Waiting is the worst!!

    Susan

    THANK YOU, SUSAN

    You are so kind and, as Alexandra, so wise.  My prayers continue for you all.

    (((HUGS)))

    Monika

     

  • poopergirl14052
    poopergirl14052 Member Posts: 1,183 Member
    #6
    mopar said:

    THANK YOU, SUSAN

    You are so kind and, as Alexandra, so wise.  My prayers continue for you all.

    (((HUGS)))

    Monika

     

    Monika

    I had mammogram and ultra sound and saw breast Dr. It was determined they were non-cancerous. They didn't do a biopsy. I was so upset my blood pressure went up to 180/90. I will be thinking of you and pray for a good outcome....val

  • lovesanimals
    lovesanimals Member Posts: 1,366 Member
    #7
    poopergirl14052 said:

    Monika

    I had mammogram and ultra sound and saw breast Dr. It was determined they were non-cancerous. They didn't do a biopsy. I was so upset my blood pressure went up to 180/90. I will be thinking of you and pray for a good outcome....val

    Hi Monika

    We all know how you're feeling; it's hard not to think the worst and the waiting is torture.  However, the fact that the radiologist did not recomment a biopsy is a good sign, plus the fact that you are BRCA negative.  Sending lots of good thoughts and prayers your way.  Please keep us posted!

    Hugs,

    Kelly

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #8
    lovesanimals said:

    Hi Monika

    We all know how you're feeling; it's hard not to think the worst and the waiting is torture.  However, the fact that the radiologist did not recomment a biopsy is a good sign, plus the fact that you are BRCA negative.  Sending lots of good thoughts and prayers your way.  Please keep us posted!

    Hugs,

    Kelly

    THANK YOU, KELLY & VAL!

    Your words bring me comfort this morning.  :)

    (((HUGS)))

    Monika

     

  • childofthestars
    childofthestars Member Posts: 251 Member
    #9
    Monika

    Thinking of you Monika x

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #10
    childofthestars said:

    Monika

    Thinking of you Monika x

    THANK YOU. . .

    It means a lot to me.  :)

     

  • Kaleena
    Kaleena Member Posts: 2,088 Member
    #11
    Thinking of you.

    Monica:

    On a mammogram they had seen something suspecious.   Sent in for an MRI.   The MRI still showed the mass and I had to have a biopsy.   The biopsy was negative.   It was determined that I have fibro something or other (sounded like cancer - but not).   Given you are not positive for BRCA, I hope everything goes well for you too.

     

    Kathy

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #12
    Kaleena said:

    Thinking of you.

    Monica:

    On a mammogram they had seen something suspecious.   Sent in for an MRI.   The MRI still showed the mass and I had to have a biopsy.   The biopsy was negative.   It was determined that I have fibro something or other (sounded like cancer - but not).   Given you are not positive for BRCA, I hope everything goes well for you too.

     

    Kathy

    THANK YOU, KATHY

    Can't wait till my appointment tomorrow.  I know I won't have much more to go on, but I really like my doctor and trust him, and I know he'll give me an honest opinion, for what it's worth.

    :)

     

  • Cafewoman53
    Cafewoman53 Member Posts: 735 Member
    #13
    mopar said:

    THANK YOU, KATHY

    Can't wait till my appointment tomorrow.  I know I won't have much more to go on, but I really like my doctor and trust him, and I know he'll give me an honest opinion, for what it's worth.

    :)

     

    Monika

    I am crossing my fingers for you ! It is hard not to think the worst but you will be okay no matter what the results. You are getting lots of good thoughts being sent your way. Keep us posted.

    Colleen

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #14
    Cafewoman53 said:

    Monika

    I am crossing my fingers for you ! It is hard not to think the worst but you will be okay no matter what the results. You are getting lots of good thoughts being sent your way. Keep us posted.

    Colleen

    THANK YOU, COLLEEN

    Saw my doctor last night.  His PA will arrange for a biopsy, so hopefully it will get done soon.  Will keep you posted.

    Thank you all again for everything!

    (((HUGS)))

    Monika

    P.s.  Keeping the Faith & Hope Alive!

     

  • lovesanimals
    lovesanimals Member Posts: 1,366 Member
    #15
    Hi Monika

    I have never had this procedure so I can't share any personal experiences.  Please know though that I am praying that you get in ASAP and that it turns out to be a minor, non-cancerous issue.

    Big hugs,

    Kelly

  • Lisa 00
    Lisa 00 Member Posts: 134 Member
    #16
    breast biopsy

    Hi Monika,

    I have had 2 breast biopsies.  After the first one, I couldn't imagine HOW any doctor could send a patient for one without offering oral sedation.

    I got a prescription for some happy pills before the second biopsy and it was SOOO much easier to deal with. 

    So, that's my advice.  Get some good drugs before you go and have someone drive you home.  Oh, and be sure to take enough of them.  I took twice what the prescription said and was a happy clam. 

    Best of luck!

    Lisa

  • Alexandra
    Alexandra Member Posts: 1,308
    #17
    biopsy

    Hi Monika.

    They never called what I had "stereotactic", they called it MRI-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy. I don't know if it's the same thing. Basically your boob is held between the plates, they take several pictures to determine precise location, apply local anasthetic, insert a core needle and suck out several samples. Then they take more pictures and with the same needle place a tiny titanium marker inside where the samples were taken from. Then do mammogram. In my case in took almost 2 hrs and was done on both sides. I can't predict if it's going to be painful or not: on my right side - no bruising, no pain, just a tiny prick from the needle. Left side - 3 weeks later still looks like a giant hard bruise and hurts. I guess it depends on the skill of the radiologist and your luck. I took a couple of Ativan (lorazepan) before the procedure. I should've taken a couple of dozen.

    I hope your biopsy is not painful and rules out cancer. Good luck!

     

  • kimberly sue 63
    kimberly sue 63 Member Posts: 421 Member
    #18
    mopar said:

    THANK YOU, COLLEEN

    Saw my doctor last night.  His PA will arrange for a biopsy, so hopefully it will get done soon.  Will keep you posted.

    Thank you all again for everything!

    (((HUGS)))

    Monika

    P.s.  Keeping the Faith & Hope Alive!

     

    biopsy

    hang in there monika.....soon you will have answers.Kim

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #19
    Lisa 00 said:

    breast biopsy

    Hi Monika,

    I have had 2 breast biopsies.  After the first one, I couldn't imagine HOW any doctor could send a patient for one without offering oral sedation.

    I got a prescription for some happy pills before the second biopsy and it was SOOO much easier to deal with. 

    So, that's my advice.  Get some good drugs before you go and have someone drive you home.  Oh, and be sure to take enough of them.  I took twice what the prescription said and was a happy clam. 

    Best of luck!

    Lisa

    THANK YOU ALL!

    Well, once I see the doctor I'll be sure to ask for something.  Hopefully, she will humor me and oblige!

    Yes, the name of the test my doc recommended is the same, Alexandra, as what you described.

    By the way, can any of you recommend a good breast care physician/surgeon in the Detroit, Michigan area?  I have one appointment set up in one health care system, but will call tomorrow to see if this other doctor is availble.  She is closer, and in the health care system I generally use.  

    Will keep you all posted.  Thank you all so much for your helpful responses and thoughts and prayers!

    Monika

  • Alexandra
    Alexandra Member Posts: 1,308
    #20
    mopar said:

    THANK YOU ALL!

    Well, once I see the doctor I'll be sure to ask for something.  Hopefully, she will humor me and oblige!

    Yes, the name of the test my doc recommended is the same, Alexandra, as what you described.

    By the way, can any of you recommend a good breast care physician/surgeon in the Detroit, Michigan area?  I have one appointment set up in one health care system, but will call tomorrow to see if this other doctor is availble.  She is closer, and in the health care system I generally use.  

    Will keep you all posted.  Thank you all so much for your helpful responses and thoughts and prayers!

    Monika

    Detroit

    Monika, my friend Nancy lives in Macomb Twp and works in Auburn Hills. I'll ask her tomorrow

  • mopar
    mopar Member Posts: 1,972 Member
    #21
    Alexandra said:

    Detroit

    Monika, my friend Nancy lives in Macomb Twp and works in Auburn Hills. I'll ask her tomorrow

    THANK YOU!

    Wonderful, Alexandra!  Please tell her that I do have an appointment scheduled with a Dr. Kuwajerwala (they call her Dr. K) at Beaumont.  Because my OVCA oncologist is through the St. John health system, I thought it might be better to stay with them.  I truly appreciate you asking her for me!

    Monika

     

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