DCIS confusion surgery/radiation and results

[Hpsauce2988]

I am 43 have been recently diagnosed with DCIS. Pathology proven by biopsy. On my digital mammogram two radiologists and my general surgeon are concerned about other multiple groups of calcifications that are also in the breast.
These other areas of concern are only seen on one view of the mammogram therefore we are unable to do a biopsy to figure out what they are.
An Mri was done on the breast and showed nothing, including the area of where the cancer was proven.
My doctor was leaning towards a mastectomy originally after zooming in on the mammogram with the radiologist. After the Mri he is leaning towards a lumpectomy depending on margins : reexcision to mastectomy or radiation.

Where my confusion lies is in the other groups of calcifications. What will radiation do to these other areas of concern as we cannot perform a biopsy to see what they are?
How long is a wait time to keep surviellance on these areas to see what they are and how serious?
what will the radiation do to future mammograms and these areas? Will it be difficult to see these areas...??

Need to make a decision really soon.... and Im so confused.

[japdip]

I don't quite understand that the areas cannot be biopsied. Certainly if they are seen, even on one view, they could be located and wire placement be done followed by biopsy but there may be informaton that you have not included.
I would never attempt to advise what you are asking but I would suggest that you seek another opinion regarding which type of surgery ... you don't state if you have seen an Oncologist yet and if not I think you should for that additional opinion about the surgery and treatment.  Regards ...

[katarina777]

I understand your concern, and my most immediate reaction was  that I would have a mastectomy if I were you. But I am not you, and losing a breast at your age may be a big consideration against such an aggressive treatment.

My concern would be as yours in not knowing what those calcifications really are. I would also be concerned about having a lumpectomy/radiation treatment process in case you have a recurrence. Also, you may want to be at piece of mind that nothing is left in that breast that can act against you now or in the future. Last, with a mastectomy you won't need radiation.

These are just my thoughts, and not advice.

Please let us know what you decide, and maybe you could benefit also from a second opinion?

All the best, KAT