breast calcification and biopsy

[azile]

On august 28 I went for my routine Mammogram and two weeks later was recalled for more specific mammograhy. Immediately after this second series was done, I was told I needed a Steriotactic biopsy because the flims showed an area of microcalcifications in my breast. I waited a week, and then called to see if an appointment had been booked. None had, and my doctor was unware that one was needed. However, he quickly checked into the situation and booked a biopsy for me which is due to take place on October 5th.

I am very thankful for the program of routine mammograms and the early detection made possible by them.

However, in this istance, I am very  concerned about the delayed process,  and in particular, what that delay  could mean if the calcification turns out to be malignant.  
What is the rate of growth of such early cancers?
Have I cause for concern?
I didnt think to ask for details of the lesion and now I wish I had.
I would appreciate any insight and advice in this matter.

[Montana girl 06]

After my last mammo it was almost 2 weeks before they called me back, also. Altho it may not be necessary to rush to a biopsy for many microcalcs and lumps, it's frustrating to know that I'll be on pins and needles for 2 weeks after my next mammo, wondering and waiting for the call. I wrote a letter to the director of the radiology center listing as many positives as I could, and then hitting hard on how disapppointed I was with the delay. When I had abnormal mammos in the past I was always called within 3 working days. Anyway, the director called me, apologized, and walked through the timeline with me, trying to figure out where the process broke down. He asked what he could do for me, and I said, just assure me that next time there will be no delay in calling me. Altho many of these delays may not be life-threatening, they are unnecessary and should be fixed.

[azile]

Even though I realized the risk factor for malignancy is low in MIcorcalcifications, the way in which the info was passed onto me made me feel somewhat insecure. But each of you you has helped alleviate my concerns and so I will face the biopy without worry. Thanks immensely!

[jc76001]

that makes me feel better too because my mamo was about 1 week after i went to my dr then my biopsy was scheduled 10 days after that.. i too was worried that if it was malignant the waiting....it sounds as though that is pretty normal from some of the reading i have done on here.
good luck and let us know...

[japdip]

I wouldn't be concerned about the delay at all. Although my biopsy was done within a couple weeks following my mammogram; my breast surgery wasn't done until a little more than a month after the biopsy. Surgeon and Primary Care physician both said the delay would make no difference in the outcome.