Mammogram question

[nscrbug]

Last week, I had a routine mammogram (I'm 44)...was getting my yearly pelvic exam and my doc said there was an opening for a mammogram at that time, so I opted to have it done then instead of making a separate appointment. The tech never mentioned anything unusual, while she was taking the images...other than that she thought my images were some of the best that she had ever done...ok, whatever. :p

Today, I got a call requesting me to come back for a "diagnostic mammogram" because something questionable was found in my left breast. What exactly does this mean? How does a diagnostic mammogram differ from a routine mammogram? The only thing they told me, was to expect to stay at least 90 minutes afterwards, because the results are done on the spot and then they will discuss everything with me. I go on Monday afternoon. I'm a tad bit freaked out by all of this. This was my third (I think) mammogram that I've had done in the last 4 years or so...and this was the first time I got called back. Can anyone offer any insight on this? Thanks!

Linda

[ny biker]

From googling, it looks like a diagnostic mammogram takes more views than a screening mammogram, and some might be magnified, because they want to get a closer look at something.

I would call my doctor and ask him/her for more info.

I hope everything is okay.

[Bike Chick]

I can't offer any advice. I've only had the regular ones but I will wish you good luck and hope it's just precautionary.

[Catrin]

I have had this, at least when I did it they used a digital machine that took more views. All they found was a cyst, but it is great that they tell you before you leave what they found so that you don't have to wait on pins and needles....

[Aquila]

From what I've read, most of the time they're just making sure.

I hope everything's okay with you.

[bikerchic]

....and I know those words are useless because I've had the same thing happen to me and I worried too.

Long story short it was simply a retake of the mamo to make sure what they think they saw wasn't anything to worry about. That said anything they may see on the retake is exactly why you go for a mamo in the first place! It's to catch something while it's small and treatable, you will be fine and getting your mamo done yearly (if you're in that catagory) is a great thing to do for your health.

BTW thanks for the reminder....I usually schedule mine around Mother's Day every year and it's that time again!

[Grits]

I had the same thing happen last mammogram. I went in and they did additional views as well as the same views over again. I didn't even realize I was going to get any results that day and was surprised when she came out and told me that the radiologist said everything was fine but to still come back to get another one done in six months. (I had micro calcifications).

My physician, however, wanted me to get a second opinion, and I did end up getting a biopsy which said all was fine.

When all the publicity started about mammogram frequency and age start date, I felt like they were talking about me since I was one of the unnecessary biopsies that came as a result of annual mammograms started before the age of 50. Still, I would rather have the mammograms even with the risk of an unnecessary biopsy and catch something early. I am usually overly cautious, but that is just the way I am!

[Biciclista]

do they crush your breasts as hard with the digital mammograms?

[ny biker]

do they crush your breasts as hard with the digital mammograms?

Yes.

[TsPoet]

Women in my family have fibrous breasts. They (I haven't gone yet :() have all had to have these so their doctors can get a good view of the non-pathological fibrous tissue so they can tell the difference between it and something else at a later date.
They are being cautious, so keep your chin up and try not to worry.

[nscrbug]

Ok...I'm feeling much better about this now...thanks to all of you! :) As far as I know, there is no history of breast cancer (or any cancer) in my family...BUT, that is not to say that something wasn't "missed". I never met my father, so I have no medical history on him. As for my mother (who is deceased), she never was the type of woman who would go to the doctor for anything other than her Type 2 diabetes. I'm absolutely positive that she never did a self-exam, or even had a mammogram...that's just how she was. So...IF there was cancer growing in her, I doubt she even knew about it. So...that makes my family history a bit "sketchy". Fortunately, I'm just the opposite of my mom...I tend to be over cautious about everything. ;)

Linda

[Resi]

I have done mammos over 10 years, but the last two they always have to redo my left breast, because when they squeeze my breast the skin makes a fold...

You take care and good luck

[nscrbug]

So I had my diagnostic mammogram yesterday, and all is well. They also did an ultrasound and concluded that I only have a cyst...so I can breathe a sigh of relief. :) They do want me to come back in 6 months for another ultrasound, just to keep an eye on it. Thanks to all, for the encouraging words.

Linda

[Aquila]

That's GREAT news, Linda! Thanks for letting us know. I'm glad it's not something more dangerous.

[OakLeaf]

That's wonderful news. I'm so glad it turned out okay.

[uforgot]

That's good news. I had the same thing happen. My doctor said that they do this a lot and 99% of time it's nothing. I had the ultra sound also. Better safe than sorry! My mother died of breast cancer, so my doctor explained it all so I wouldn't freak.

As for digital, uh, yes, it's just as smashing, but the pictures are better!:D

[beccaB]

I have to have a call back on mine too. I would rather get the letter in the mail saying "see you next year", but that doesn't always happen that way with me. My Mom ignored a problem, and then it was something terrible. I know I'm much better off having them take a second look, with my family history it's best to play it safe and not bury my head in the sand. That's what my Mom did, and at the risk of sounding morbid, she is no longer with us. Please ladies, get your mammograms!

[Bike Chick]

Great news! I'm glad it's over for you and it turned out ok.