cluster calcification

[Sheilarevie]

A cluster of calcification just showed up on my mammogram. I have an appointment with a surgeon in 3 weeks. What is the procedure for having this removed? Is a biopsy usually performed?


This discussion is related to burning, pain 10 days after stereotactic breast biopsy.

[iam1butterfly]

A biopsy is the likely course of action. Although, sometimes doctors suggest a 6 month wait-and-see approach; then, another mammogram is administered in order to observe any changes from the previous one. If a biopsy is recommended then, your surgeon will determine if a stereotatic (needle) biopsy or a surgical biopsy is in order based upon certain factors, including the location of the calcifications. The stereotatic process is usually performed in a radiological/ imaging facility; utilizing a local anesthetic; and, inserting a tiny titanium clip as a reference marker for future diagnostic tests at the site of the biopsy. While, the surgical procedure is typically performed in an out-patient medical/surgical facility with the patient fully sedated. I've experienced both of these biopsies; and, I found the needle procedure to be far less invasive than the surgical one. In either case, the biopsy is the sure way to determine what the nature of the calcifications are. Best wishes and good luck!

[mortheak]

I just got home from having a biopsy to remove a cluster of calcificationsi. I have known about it for about 5 weeks. My doctor told me not to worry but that's easier said than done. i worried myself sick - lost several pounds and couldn't concentrate on anything else when i was home. Once I met with my surgeon last monday he put ALL my worries at ease.

He gave me some options to concider. We could wait and see if there was any change after 6 months, do a needle biopsy which could be a hit or miss for the cluster, or do the steriostatic biopsy where you take more tissue to look at more cells. I chose the later. There is breast cancer on both sides of my family and I wanted to have it checked while I have insurance.

The biopsy was a bit uncomfortable. The table that was used was definately not designed by a woman - not nearly enough padding for my head or the side that was not being checked. The mamography during the procedure was a typical mamogram except that they kept me in it for about 30 minutes while they took images, mapped the proper location, and the time for the actual procedure. Other than that it was pretty pain free. A little discomfort now but tylenol and ice are helping. I will be getting my results on monday, April 6.

Try not to worry, dear. I know it will be hard. Think positive! Find something positive to use to get through this. Mine was a bilboard I saw every morning on the way to work, "Things just work out..."  I know they will for both of us!

[zouzi]

Yes I know my dear... the waiting is the worst part.Try to ask your surgeon if she can give you an earlier date if another patient cancels her appointment.Sometimes it works.Try to keep your mind busy, with maybe a new project or something you really like doing and time will pass faster,Also consider that the odds are in your favor.I have a feeling that you'll be just fine.God Bless you.

[Sheilarevie]

Thank you so much. I am just so worried and this is just so new to me. My appointment with the surgeon is April 23.  The waiting is upsetting me.

[zouzi]

Hi,a cluster of calcification when seen on a mammogram,becomes somewhat suspicious ,and that's why you have to meet with a surgeon,who will most probably do a biopsy to be able to determine the finding.I have a friend that had cluster calcification like you have, and after the biopsy was done, the finding was benign.According to statistics, 80% of all biopsies are of benign nature.Until the biopsy is done, I cannot tell you what the procedure will be.In the meantime keep thinking positive because it will help you while you wait to see the surgeon.Best wishes.