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@mandi77

Bi-Rads 3 with BRACA2 & ATM Mutation & family breast/ovarian cancer history. Second opinion advocate for a biopsy?

Hi I'm new here. I recently entered the high breast cancer risk program due to history & a small lump left breast. Background: 7 years ago in 2016 my mom diagnosed stage 4 Ovarian cancer she encouraged genetic testing. Discovered we have BRCA2 & ATM genetic mutations. I'd always had several female pain/issues so I opted for a radical hysterectomy & several ovarian & fallopian tube cysts were discovered but fully cleared with surgery. My Mom passed that same year. Since we've discovered family breast cancer hx.
Now: Mammogram & Contrast MRI ordered Dec2022. Mammo showed dense breast with irregular left breast shape. MRI showed 2-4mm mass left breast. Follow up was: Diagnostic Mammo & Ultrasound left breast- specialist said "if mass shows on either diagnostic mammo or ultrasound follow up with ultrasound guided biopsy". Those follow up diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound were this week. Mammo showed left breast irregular shape and swollen listed as unremarkable. Ultrasound: (6) different spots notated: 1 benign cyst, 2 mixed cysts, 1 probably benign mass, 2 solid hypoechoic masses 2x5x8mm possibly benign with 2 swollen lymph nodes left armpit area one was 29 mm diameter "possibly benign". BI-RADS 3. The radiologist said no biopsy needed come back in 6 months and he sent his technician to tell me this though she was pushing for a consult with him. I was completely frustrated 😞 I felt that since the tests took so long and completed at 430 on a Friday holiday weekend- the bedside manner and patient centered care was lacking. Also of course I also felt that my specialists recommendations were Not followed which stated: "If any mass shows up on mammo or ultrasound a ultrasound guided biopsy needs to be done". The radiologist recommendations instead were: "Follow up with another ultrasound and mammogram in 6 months". I feel like a second opinion and a biopsy should be warranted in this case. Obviously I am concerned and stressed and seeking peace of mind. What are anyone's thoughts out there? I would whole heartedly greatly appreciate any and all feedback! ❤ Thank you and bless you all!

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Replies to "Bi-Rads 3 with BRACA2 & ATM Mutation & family breast/ovarian cancer history. Second opinion advocate for..."

I would not wait.

Hello,
If it were me, I would be getting a second opinion. With your family history, with the many “probably benign” statements, and with 2 swollen lymph nodes, I would be seeking another opinion. This is your health and if your gut is telling you to get a second opinion, then do it. I wish you well!

You could get a second opinion from another radiologist? They are saying no biopsy because it’s a Bi-Rad 3. Due to your family history. All radiologist are not equal. The more seasoned doctors, less mistakes. Just my opinion. Prayers for you on your journey. I pray they are correct in your case and they keep a good watch on you! Hugs for you. This journey worries us all.

I would advocate for biopsy given history. And yes, it’s understandable (in my opinion) that you’d feel frustrated!

I agree that you should go ahead with what your surgeon says, and not wait.

I had new micro calcifications on a mammogram in 2021. Was told I could biopsy or wait 6 months. I decided to biopsy. Initially biopsy said Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia. Strong family history. No BRCA gene but my oncologist suggested lumpectomy (aka partial mastectomy). Pathology upgraded me to Lobular Carcinoma in Situ. Still not cancer but it gave me a clearer understanding of my risk. Honestly I would push for the biopsy.

@mandi77
By any chance, did you have a Covid vaccine or booster within 2-3 months of your mammogram? My oncologist advised not to have mammogram with 2 months of mammogram as they had seen inflammation of breast tissue following that. I've added a site regarding this.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/covid19-vaccine-can-it-affect-your-mammogram-results