microcalcification question

[wenturi]

I'm having a needle biopsy done later this week since microcalcifications were found on a mammo.  I viewed the mammo results with the radiologist...there were several areas of round white dots dispersed throughout the breast and they seemed to be connected by fine white lines. Some of what I learned in researching this seems to indicate that because these are dispersed, there may be less likelihood of cancer.  Yet, other info seems to suggest that the lines "connecting the dots" constitutes a "pattern", a characteristic that tends to point to cancer.  The radiologist noted that some of the calcifications were distinctly round, while others seemed to have concave features he found worrisome. Can anyone shed some light on this?   Also, do you get biopsy results immediately or do you have to wait, and if so, about how long?  For me, waiting and not knowing is worse than anything.  thanks      

[wenturi]

Thanks so much for your support.  I'm trying really hard to re-focus, but of course the sick feeling in my stomach keeps coming back - my sister was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer last year and my family is devastated. I'm not sharing what is going on  with them, so I really appreciate having an outlet through this forum.  I go for the biopsy tomorrow morning, and can hardly wait to just know something one way or the other.  Thanks again .

[mamaboulet]

There is no way to not worry. Distraction from the worry is about the best you can do. Watch a funny movie. Take your dog for an uphill hike. Organize your pantry with opera music playing loudly. Go out for breakfast with a friend. Keep busy.

[madgeOwens]

when you figure out how not to worry be sure and let me know!

[mamaboulet]

Try to find some ways to distract yourself for a few days to keep your stress down. Waiting is NOT fun. best wishes for a good result.

[wenturi]

Thank you so much for the info and for taking the time to respond.  I just wish I could go to sleep for the next several days and not wake up until the biopsy is done and the results are back.  Thanks again........

[japdip]

Microcalcifications are an indication of the response of the breast tissue to some abnomality that is present within the breast. This is definitely NOT always due to cancer. These calcifications do occur normally within breast tissue but are scattered about. when they are observed in groups or certain patterns they then are cause for concern. This is when a biopsy is recommended to discover this cause. You will not know the results of the biopsy immediatly; the specimen is sent to the Pathology Lab where it is studied ... the results are usually available within 4 to 7 days ... depending on what day of the week the biopsy is done and also the institution. The final report will be sent to your Physician/Surgeon and explained to you in detail either by phone or in person. Yes, the waiting is the worst .. everyone says that. Best Wishes .......