possible breast cancer

macarva · New User Joined: 03 Aug 2006 Posts: 1

I am a 47 year old female, grandmother had breast cancer in her 70's, no other family history. I go regularly for mammograms. This past mammogram revealed a 4.6mm nodule with not entirely smooth borders containing 4-6 microcalcifications. The report indicated it might be suggestive of an intramammary lymph node with calcifications. However, since the finding is new, biopsy is recommended. Since the nodule is at the tail of the breast, a surgical biopsy is indicated. BIRADS 4B. I have had microcalcifications removed from the same breast 13 years ago with benign results. This time I do not feel I will have the same outcome. I am absolutely terrified I have breast cancer that has metastisized and spread all over my body. I have an anxiety disorder (all my life) and I am absolutely convinced I don't have long to live. I met with the surgeon and basically she said she did not know what it was and it was wise to have it biopsied. She indicated there was about a 65% chance of it being benign. I also see a psychiatrist who tries to put things into perspective for me. Can you please shed some light on this for me? I am going out of my mind. I will be setting up an appointment for the surgical biopsy. From reading this, what do you feel the likelyhood is that it is cancer or not. Also, if it is cancer, does it sound likely to be early stage?
Thank you.

Vee Smith · Moderator Joined: 12 Feb 2006 Posts: 702 Location: UK

You are unlikely to have a major problem. A biopsy will confirm malignancy or non-malignancy. In the meantime, take this to heart:

"Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune,
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself. "

bethanyaok · Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 4:16 pm Post subject: Re: possible breast cancer

Hi Marceva,

Here's a link that explains BIRADS ratings. http://www.imaginis.com/breasthealth/acrbi.asp

BIRADS 4 means that a biopsy should be considered. A biopsy is the only way to rule out cancer!! There is an 80% likelihood that a biopsy would be benign!! Those are good stats in your favor. I hope you can have the biopsy soon, and hopefully put your fears to rest.

If you want some information or extra support, I suggest you contact www.y-me.org They have a 24 hour hotline where you can speak with a trained peer counselor (someone who has had breast cancer).

Take Care,
Bethany
_________________
Bethany
breast cancer dx 4/17/00
4 AC, 28 rads, tamoxifen
7 years NED, and counting!
BRCA2+ 2/1/07

Lost Dad to Lung Cancer June '05

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