scattered patchy nodular densities

[Tina M]

I am 41 years old,previous mammogram of 3 years ago was normal Was sent to have a routine mammogram at the same hospital this month. On this mammogram report it says, scattered patchy nodular densities that could obscure a lesion.Then I was called to have more xrays and that report says ,left retroaerolar density is again evident and demostrates slightly irregular margins. BI-RADS category 3 The radiologist suggest a 6 month repeat evaluation for stability. My doctor is sending me to a surgeon to have him evaluate me and treat. What does all this mean. Thanks!

[Tina M]

Went to surgeon today, now I have to get an ultrasound on Otober 31st. Return to the surgeon on November 12th. This is nerve racking. Will let you know the 12th of Nov. the results of ultra sound.

[surgeon]

breast tissue changes with time, and the changes are very often not symmetrical. So followup mammograms, especially with a 3 year interval may look different from each other. "scattered patchy nodular densities" basically is the xray equivalent of saying lumpy breasts. The changes, in other words, are not felt to be very worrisome; but whenever there are changes, there must be a plan to address them. 6 month followup, when the changes are not felt to be of concern, is a common way to deal with it. Additional consultation, especially if you or your doctor have concerns, is also very sensible.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Tina M, BI-RADS is a system that is used by radiologists interpreting mammograms to give a rating to what they are seeing on the mammogram.  The categories range from 1 to 5 with 1 meaning negative - nothing to comment on, to 5 meaning highly suggestive of malignancy.  A category 3 means it is probably a benign (non-cancerous) finding, however short term follow-up is recommended to establish stability.  However, your doctor sending you to a breast surgeon to follow up on this makes sense.