Breasts Forum - Knot in left breast

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Q: Knot in left breast

asked by: DoctorQuestion on September 23rd, 2009

A large knot was visible on my left breast...poking out some...about the size of a quarter. While waiting to get in for diagnostic mammogram it decreased in size a little over the past week or two. Here are the findings of the mam & ultrasound: "Breasts are extremely dense and vaguely nodular with multiple clusters of calcifications seen bilaterly most with dependent layering at 90 degree lateral view. Area of concern is a 1.2 cm oval, heterogeneous mass with increased blood flow not a typical fibroadenoma due to heterogeneous nature. There is nodularity in the region of the palpable lump." 1st doctor suggest core biopsy or surgical excision. 2nd doctor (surgeon) suggested surgical excision. Why the need for excision without cancer diagnosis? Does the description lean more toward a malignancy than a benign condition? I have a family history of colon cancer(my dad's mom), stomach cancer(my dad) colon precancer(me & dad), skin cancer(my mom), hysterectomy due to cancer(my dads mom).HELP

Replies(1)

Dr. Robert Wascher , MD

replied on September 26th, 2009

Breasts Answer A7359

A specific diagnosis can only be made with a biopsy. A core needle biopsy is a reasonable first step, and in 99 percent of cases, this will provide an accurate diagnosis. After the needle biopsy, you can then make a prudent decision regarding surgery.

Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS

http://doctorwascher.com

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