Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Mammogram findings: clarify terminology

I had my annual mammogram.  It is recommended that I go back for 'compression views' for a 'asymmetry in the right breast at 5 o'clock anterior depth,' that is being termed 'indeterminate.'  The current study was compared with a 2008 mammogram.  Since 2008 I have clearly been approaching menopause.  It will be 1 year with no period this June.  My breast density has clearly changed - less dense, less firm, softer.  What are normal changes?  On a scale of 1 to 10 how panicked should I get about the terms 'asymmetry' and 'indeterminate'?  My report states: 'no other significant masses, calcifications, or other findings are seen in either breast.'  So, what are they maybe seeing?
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
For the last two years I have had to go back after a mammogram for further testing on the left breast. It always comes back as nothing to worry about after further testing.

This year at my yearly exam, gyno found a lump on the right one, I am sure it is nothing as well. I don't know what my tests results indicate in the two mammograms I have had read, I do not have copies. I started having to get them at the age of 38, I will be 40 this year.

Good luck on yours.  I don't go until mid May for testing.
Helpful - 0
587083 tn?1327120262
If a radiologist interpreting a mammogram was not able to view either a region of the breast completely or a possible abnormality completely, the radiologist may recommend additional imaging, including the use of spot compression, to help make a more complete evaluation.

Spot compression  is a type of mammogram in which only a small area of the breast is compressed (by a small plate or cone) during the procedure in order to achieve better imaging of the particular region of the breast.

The term asymmetrical density describes a difference in the breast tissue from one breast to the other. What this density represents in your situation is impossible to say.. As you are going through the process of having this evaluated your doctors should be better able to characterize this as more information is known.
Best wishes and good luck...
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Breast Cancer Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
A quick primer on the different ways breast cancer can be treated.
Diet and digestion have more to do with cancer prevention than you may realize
From mammograms to personal hygiene, learn the truth about these deadly breast cancer rumors.
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.