Microcalcifications and scared:(
about 7 months ago I had my first mammogram. I am 36 yrs old. They told me everything was OK and I could go home just to call me next day to tell me to come back to the clinic to have a second mammogram.
When I returned, they did mammogram twice and an ultrasound. The results were a cyst on my left breast and micro calcifications on my right side. Dr told me that she recommended 6 months wait and see if micro-calcifications disappear (which she said she was suspicious it would happen), and then do another mammogram and biopsy if calcifications still there..
I went 7 months later, which was last week, and did mammogram. The technician told me microcalc were still there and send me to waiting room. Then she called me in a hallway behind the corner and told me the microcalcifications were still there but no changes. Then she said, they are probably benign, but sometimes they could be cancerous but I am good to go and come back in 6 months for another mammogram and that my insurance will cover it in spite me being 36.
I asked to see a doctor as I had may questions, but she said they were all busy.
I was really upset and I told them at the front desk to send my results to my family dr and I called him. He said not to worry, as soon as he has results, he will call me and then he will send me to some another breast dr.
Two days later they called from my GYN dr's office and told me that my results came in and that microcalcifications are there but they are "normal" and that I have an appointment scheduled for March 1st with High risk breast specialist?!
So I was confused and asked why do I need to see a specialist if everything is OK? She said that those (calc) sometimes could be cancerous so Dr wants to be sure.
Five minutes later my family practitioner called to tell me that he has received my tests results and that I have two areas on my right breast spread with microcalcifications and that it makes it hard to see well because my breast tissue is tick and fibrous; therefore, he recommended biopsy but didn't know how they are going to do it since I have "sprinkles like" calcifications. He recommend waiting and not to be worried and not to read anything about it.
To be honest, I feel petrified as I have three small children, just started my first year of masters degree and I have no family support where I leave now. I guess I just needed the place, like this discussion board, where I can express my concerns and vent without being judged.
Please tell me if I am overreacting or not? I feel that I have right to know what is going on with m,y body and this suspense and uncertainty is destroying me. I can't concentrate or do anything. I am crying all the time and it is miserable....
Thank you so much for reading and I apologize in advance for my grammar / spelling mistakes as I am very upset now...
What do you think, should I request second opinion or should I just go with the flow. I am so new in this and really do not know what to do. I feel like I want to quit my school and just spent time with my children...
Thank you one more time,
Boki.
Comments
-
Hello Boki
I'm sorry for the reason why you've had to come here, but it is a great place for encouragement, support and sharing of knowledge.
At the age of 39 microcalcifications showed up on my mammogram. I was being closely monitored because of strong family history even though I was BRAC1 and 2 negative.
In MY case, the microcalcifications turned out to be DCIS. Not all microcalcifications are DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ).
Right now in your situation, what I would do is go to a breast center where they are used to dealing with such issues.
Others will come along with more advice, but I would head to a breast center. I definitely would NOT 'go with the flow.' Get somewhere where they will give you some answers. You deserve it!
Much Love,
dh0 -
Welcome Boki
I'm so sorry we all have to meet you under these circumstances. It is so scary having to endure any type of testing and waiting, especially when it involves the big "C".
But by what you're describing, it sounds like they are being careful in keeping track of these calcification spots. There is nothing wrong with getting a second opinion but again, what you want is for them to monitor it closely and they seem to be doing that. You mentioned that you have an appointment in March. Perhaps you can get an appointment with the Specialist sooner. Write out all your questions and research information.
I'm praying that all will go well. I'm glad you vented to us as we all understand what you're feeling We're all here for you Boki.
Hugs to you.
Sylvia0 -
Boki, I'm sorry that we havesea60 said:Welcome Boki
I'm so sorry we all have to meet you under these circumstances. It is so scary having to endure any type of testing and waiting, especially when it involves the big "C".
But by what you're describing, it sounds like they are being careful in keeping track of these calcification spots. There is nothing wrong with getting a second opinion but again, what you want is for them to monitor it closely and they seem to be doing that. You mentioned that you have an appointment in March. Perhaps you can get an appointment with the Specialist sooner. Write out all your questions and research information.
I'm praying that all will go well. I'm glad you vented to us as we all understand what you're feeling We're all here for you Boki.
Hugs to you.
Sylvia
Boki, I'm sorry that we have to meet under these circumstances, but I'm glad that you found this site. I had microcalcifications a few times and I also had very dense breasts. It's my understanding that the dense breasts make it very hard to diagnose with a mammogram. Microcalcifications do not mean that you have cancer, but they may not know for sure unless you have a biopsy.
It sounds like no one has really met with you to go over the results and explain what they're seeing and why they are concerned. I would be very frustrated not being able to sit down face-to-face with someone and ask my questions. It seems that the breast specialist is a good person to do this, and it would be great if you could move the date of the appointment sooner. Otherwise, I would make an appointment with your GYN or primary care physician to go and discuss the results.
I hope you're able to get the answers that you need quickly.
Joyce0 -
I had a similar experience
with my mammo this year showing up with microcalcifications. I had a magnified mammo and then a week later I had a stereotactic biopsy which showed cancer, DCIS -- Stage 0. My surgeon recommended a lumpectomy with radiation followup. (I was 57 at diagnosis).
So I had the lumpectomy and was re-staged as Stage 1, IDC (invasive ductal carcinoma), no nodal involvement and I was triple negative (cancer does not respond to hormones). At this point, I had another lumpectomy to get clear margins and then started Chemo a month later which I've just finished (Jan 7th). I'm getting ready now for 33 radiation treatment.
I totally trust my surgeon and oncologists so I didn't seek a 2nd opinion, however, I think in your situation I would be tempted to. No one ever told me to wait and see, but my mammo had changed from a year before, so they had something to compare to.
You'll meet wonderful warriors on this board. We all have had different experiences and will willingly share them with you. But remember each of us are different as are our cancers.
Good luck to you.
JoAnn0 -
Hi,Boki
First of all, take a deep breath. You are going to be OK. Microcalcifications do not always turn into cancer and having fiborous breasts is very common for younger women. However, it seems like you are not getting the answers you need from your doctors. It's not acceptable to say that the doctors are "busy" and cannot talk to you. Given your level of anxiety, I would recommend you see the high risk breast cancer specialist sooner rather than later. Don't be freaked out. Being high risk does not mean you will develop cancer, just that you will be more closely watched -- a good thing. I'm 36, too. I had cancer at 34 and am doing great. Take it one step at at a time and get the information you need. Chances are, everything is normal. Good luck.
Mimi0 -
I had microcalcificationsDawne.Hope said:Hello Boki
I'm sorry for the reason why you've had to come here, but it is a great place for encouragement, support and sharing of knowledge.
At the age of 39 microcalcifications showed up on my mammogram. I was being closely monitored because of strong family history even though I was BRAC1 and 2 negative.
In MY case, the microcalcifications turned out to be DCIS. Not all microcalcifications are DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ).
Right now in your situation, what I would do is go to a breast center where they are used to dealing with such issues.
Others will come along with more advice, but I would head to a breast center. I definitely would NOT 'go with the flow.' Get somewhere where they will give you some answers. You deserve it!
Much Love,
dh
I had microcalcifications that showed up on my mammogram, and, was sent for a needle core biopsy. Turned out I had ductal and invasive breast cancer.
Going to the breast center for you is a good idea.
Hugs, Diane0 -
Hello,
I don't have anything
Hello,
I don't have anything new to add. I just wanted to say welcome, take a deep breath, and let you know that we'll hold your hand through this. Please check in often and let us know how your doing.
Hugs,
linda0 -
Hi Boki--you've come to the right placeGabe N Abby Mom said:Hello,
I don't have anything
Hello,
I don't have anything new to add. I just wanted to say welcome, take a deep breath, and let you know that we'll hold your hand through this. Please check in often and let us know how your doing.
Hugs,
linda
I know how upset you are--I was in your place a little over a year ago. Although I am older than you (58) I have very dense breasts and had microcalcifications that had been missed several times on regular mammos. By the grace of God, they were found on mammo/ultrasound in Nov. '09. I had a biopsy under MRI and it turned out to be Stage 3C invasive ductal carcinoma. This DOES NOT MEAN that this is what you have. As others have said, microcalcifications can be something you just watch and are not necessarily cancer. You are right to want to speak to a physician and get all this tested--to put your mind at ease.
Whatever the outcome--you will get through this--even if you need surgery/treatment. It is a journey that should it be necessary for you--you can do it.
Keep us posted. This board has been one of the most important resources in my recovery. Everyone is so supportive and helpful.
Good luck.
Hugs, Renee0 -
Thank you:)missrenee said:Hi Boki--you've come to the right place
I know how upset you are--I was in your place a little over a year ago. Although I am older than you (58) I have very dense breasts and had microcalcifications that had been missed several times on regular mammos. By the grace of God, they were found on mammo/ultrasound in Nov. '09. I had a biopsy under MRI and it turned out to be Stage 3C invasive ductal carcinoma. This DOES NOT MEAN that this is what you have. As others have said, microcalcifications can be something you just watch and are not necessarily cancer. You are right to want to speak to a physician and get all this tested--to put your mind at ease.
Whatever the outcome--you will get through this--even if you need surgery/treatment. It is a journey that should it be necessary for you--you can do it.
Keep us posted. This board has been one of the most important resources in my recovery. Everyone is so supportive and helpful.
Good luck.
Hugs, Renee
My dear ladies,
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE SUPPORT!
I am so feeling of being in a dark and every single word you are writing here, is giving me great courage to hang it there.
I am still waiting on the call from my physician and will take it from there.
I wish I could get the appointment with High Risk Breast Program sooner than March 1st, bc It is a looong time to wait until then...
Borjana/Boki:)0 -
Boki
First I want to welcome you to this board. There is much info and definitely a lot of encouragement. I don't know anything about your situation. It is scary when no one has a real answer for you. Hopefully one of the great ladies here can offer some suggestions.
{{hugs}} Char0 -
I agree waste no time!!! Islizzie17 said:my personal thoughts
Be aggressive and seek another opinion. Time is of essence. Better to be sure as soon as possible.
I agree waste no time!!! Is there anyone to go with you? My mom goes to every appointment with me I'd be lost without her, there have been many times I have kinda spaced out and she took notes and listened having someone there is important for several reasons!!0 -
Micros
Wow! I had a 5.3cm tumor on right breast, pretty obvious cancer. Had micros in left breast. Had right mast june 09 all treatments. Had elective mast on left, oct 10, no cancer found. Yea. Like you I was "paranoid". My friend had calcifications and pushed for biopsy. Positve for cancer. Very, very early cancer. Stage 0. Lumpectomy. Going for some rads. All our cancer is so different. Do not just go with the flow. Push for your life. It might be all neg like my calcifications, but may be positive like my friends. One day at a time. Keep going with your activites and still take time for yourself and kids. Wish you had family. How about a friend? Go girl. Prayers for guidance. Katz0 -
Aloha Boki!!
The time before and shortly after the diagnosis is a very
upsetting time. We all know what you are going through.
It isn't easy and being a single mom must put so much
added stress on you.
I agree with the other women on this board, I too suggest
that you are more aggressive and demand a needle biopsy.
You don't want to waste time.
That said, try to breathe and hope for the best, you wouldn't
want to waste a day of your life stressing over something
uncertain. Hug your children for added support and
inspiration.
Love,
Ayse0 -
Boki,aysemari said:Aloha Boki!!
The time before and shortly after the diagnosis is a very
upsetting time. We all know what you are going through.
It isn't easy and being a single mom must put so much
added stress on you.
I agree with the other women on this board, I too suggest
that you are more aggressive and demand a needle biopsy.
You don't want to waste time.
That said, try to breathe and hope for the best, you wouldn't
want to waste a day of your life stressing over something
uncertain. Hug your children for added support and
inspiration.
Love,
Ayse
You already did a wait
Boki,
You already did a wait and see so I agree that it is time to have them check into this further. If you can push the date up with the breast specialist do it. While microcalcifications are not always cancer, sometimes they are and you need to have this looked into now, not later. Just my opinion. My prayers are that is turns out okay.
Stef0 -
You should insist on aaysemari said:Aloha Boki!!
The time before and shortly after the diagnosis is a very
upsetting time. We all know what you are going through.
It isn't easy and being a single mom must put so much
added stress on you.
I agree with the other women on this board, I too suggest
that you are more aggressive and demand a needle biopsy.
You don't want to waste time.
That said, try to breathe and hope for the best, you wouldn't
want to waste a day of your life stressing over something
uncertain. Hug your children for added support and
inspiration.
Love,
Ayse
You should insist on a needle biopsy to be sure. I couldn't wait until March if it were me. It probably is alright, but, if it isn't, you don't want to wait.
Can't your GP get you in for a needle biopsy?
Hugs, Lex0 -
Dear Boki,
I've had microcalcifications 3 times. The first 2, a year apart, were not cancerous - I had stereotactic biopsies. 10 years later, they were. So, push and insist, be a squeaky wheel. You need answers and clear direction. Take a deep breath and make a plan.
Can you get a second opinion, can you move the appt up closer with the high risk dr?
Keep us informed. Hugs for you, sweetie,
Sue0 -
I had them, too....
I was told that, generally, microcalcifications are benign, but need to be watched. I had them in my other breast. My surgeon wanted a biopsy done immediately, which scared the daylights out of me. I was at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago where they had this neat equipment which actually vacuumed out the calcifications while doing the stereotactic biopsy. The tissue was benign, but more importantly to me, the calcifications were removed from my body. I don't know if this was experimental or a standard procedure nor do I know ny other details about the size, shape etc of the calcifications. All I know is that I was greatly relieved. Maybe whoever did your biopsy can shed more light on the subject for you. I know how worrisome this must be for you. Hang in there. Hugs, Marilynn0 -
Thanksmgm42 said:I had them, too....
I was told that, generally, microcalcifications are benign, but need to be watched. I had them in my other breast. My surgeon wanted a biopsy done immediately, which scared the daylights out of me. I was at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago where they had this neat equipment which actually vacuumed out the calcifications while doing the stereotactic biopsy. The tissue was benign, but more importantly to me, the calcifications were removed from my body. I don't know if this was experimental or a standard procedure nor do I know ny other details about the size, shape etc of the calcifications. All I know is that I was greatly relieved. Maybe whoever did your biopsy can shed more light on the subject for you. I know how worrisome this must be for you. Hang in there. Hugs, Marilynn
Nothing new yet, I am waiting until March 1st to see a specialist and take it from there.
Very tense time which I do not like at all:(((
B.0 -
Can't you get into someoneBoki said:Thanks
Nothing new yet, I am waiting until March 1st to see a specialist and take it from there.
Very tense time which I do not like at all:(((
B.
Can't you get into someone else sooner than March? I can understand how tense this would be. When microcalcifications showed up on my mammo, I was sent the next day for a core needle biopsy. I don't think I could have waited.
Praying for you and wishing you the best of luck Boki,
Kylez0
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