Suspicious area Bi-rad 2 or 3: Do I advocate for a biopsy or wait?

Posted by whitney2326 @whitney2326, Nov 2, 2022

hello
i a new to this group so pardon me if i am not in the proper forum ! i am so confused by the random assortment of tests i have had an ZERO real answers. i have decided im going to have to be my own advocate. 6 months ago i went to the doctor complaining of a strange feeling in my left breast ..she ordered a diagnostic mammogram which came back with Bi-Rad 2 (which i only found out reading my own report)..no worries in her part no follow up despite my nagging feeling .. Last week I went for my annual mammogram ,got a call back for a suspicious area on the same left side of my breast ..another mammogram ,ultra sound and then mri ...still pretty inconclusive but now graded a Bi-Rd 3 ...do i have the right to push for a biopsy /have it taken out ? i have a gut feeling ..and waiting 6 more months to "watch " seems like bs to me . should i bother going to a bigger breast center rather than all these random doctors in my home town ?Bi-Rad 3 can be cancer correct ? i am of course grateful my lymph nodes are clear but does this mean that im all good ? i am meeting with a surgeon monday ...womdering hat i can say to advocate for myself .the wait and see game doesnt sound great consdering the change in 6 months . thank you or your insight

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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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@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

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@mandi77

I'm not sure why it stated 7 months ago I just posted this last Saturday. I'm going to try to reach my specialists today. Thank you

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That’s peculiar! Anyway— good on you: Get it done! Best to you.
Anita

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I also would rely on what PCP or oncologist recommends and you need to be your own advocate. Even if it is just to put your mind at ease with results from a biopsy, which - to me would provide a more definitive answer as to what "is" versus what "looks" benign. Especially since you have a family history that already exists.

I was dx Nov 21 and my dad was the only one that had any cancer - he was dx age 60 and died at 96 - it was caught very early - surgery only. I had ovarian cancer also caught very early - in my early 30's (also only surgery) - I'm 70 now. It wasn't until I was dx with TNBC that it was determined I'm BRCA2+.

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@spinnerbait

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.

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Thank you

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@catbuddy

I just noticed that your original question was posted 7 months ago! —what did you decide to do and how did things work out for you? I hope a good outcome.

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I'm not sure why it stated 7 months ago I just posted this last Saturday. I'm going to try to reach my specialists today. Thank you

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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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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.

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I just noticed that your original question was posted 7 months ago! —what did you decide to do and how did things work out for you? I hope a good outcome.

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

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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!

Jump to this post

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

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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!

Jump to this post

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.

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