Have Question regarding diagnosis?

[wise_cookie]

I am new to the site.  I recently had to go back for magnification views after my yearly mammagram.  These showed calcifications and my doctor decided I needed to see a surgeon for a biopsy.  The surgeon recently did my biopsy (wire)and my pathology report came back saying:

fibrosis, cyst formation, sclerosing adenosis, microcalcification and moderate atypical ductal epithelial hyperplasia.  Focal old hemorrhage also.

He is sending me to see an oncologist for treatment regarding the atypical hyperplasia although he tells me this is not cancer.  I am a little worried about all this.  He didn't even explain all the other stuff in the path report.  I only know because I had the good sense to ask for a copy which I was given right before I left his office, so I didn't get the chance to ask him about all of it.  Can you explain all of the above and tell me why I have to have treatment from oncologist?  I am really worried about all this.  Thanks.

[wise_cookie]

I saw the oncologist and he has started me on tamoxifen as a preventative measure.  Although no one in my immediate family has had breast cancer, there is an aunt with it.  I, myself have had many skin cancers removed, all malignant. So, I guess he is just being cautious and I appreciate that.  I'd rather take the tamoxifen than not, and be sorry later.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear wise_cookie:  The pathology report is describing the tissue.  None of the features mentioned is of much concern other than the atypical hyperplasia.  Women with this pathology are at higher risk of developing a breast cancer.  I'm not certain that therapy will be recommeded by the oncologist but a plan for follow up and surveillance might be the reason for the referral.

[surgeon]

sclerosis means scar tissue. Sclerosing adenosis is a buildup of glandular and scar tissue. cyst formation is so common as to be nearly universal. Microcalcifications are the spots that were seen on the original mammogram. The only thing of much significance is the atypical ductal hyperplasia; I'd say it's not usual to need to see an oncologist for that. However, it is a finding that may be associated with some increased risk of developing cancer in the future. It means your risk is somewhat elevated, but generally not so high that anything specific would be done about it other than embarking on a regular program of screening. The odds, statistically speaking, are still that you won't get cancer. In some circumstances when risk is elevated enough, some women are advised to take hormone blocking drugs, such as tamoxifen. If ADH is your only factor, it would be unlikely that the oncologist would recommend it in your case. The surgeon is, I'd say, just being very cautious in suggesting you hear from an oncologist about risk and options.

[wise_cookie]

Thanks for your response.....it really makes me feel better about my situation.  I am so happy to have found this board!