Forum Discussion
Microcalcification biopsy
I was wondering if anyone here has experience with microcalcifications?
In particular, whether they've been biopsied and if so, how many times?
And have you had an MRI or other imaging to help understand the microcalcifications?
I'm curious because I had microcalcifications show up in my other breast from my first mammogram a year ago. Two core biopsies were taken but a clip/marker wasn't inserted. The diagnosis was: benign proliferative changes.
I've now had my second mammogram and they want to do another biopsy and insert a clip. They haven't said if anything has actually changed in that part of my breast in the past year.
My surgeon is going to ask the imaging place for more information so I understand what's going on.
I'm surprised that they want another biopsy so soon and seemingly without any change. I don't know if that's normal and whether that will be the case for the years to come?!
7 Replies
My recent mammogram showed microcalcification spanning 43x53x66mm which apparently looked concerning, u/s didn't pick it up, MRI to a lesser extent. A Vacuum assisted core biopsy with titanium marker was done (l didn't want a titanium foreign body in my breast) but was not given a choice. Biopsy turned out to be DCIS High Grade (3) & because of extensive span in relation to breast size (B Cup) a SMX was the treatment advised to have which l found extreme. Sought numerous opinions & all advising SMX as SOC (standard of care). Took me months to agree, wishing l didn't as pathology after MX showed DCIS 12mm & 17mm which was nowhere near the span of the 66mm microcalcification reported. So in my mind this was 💯 overtreatment, presuming the microcalcification is all DCIS which it clearly wasn't 😢 If l knew what l knew now l would have waited for next mammogram for changes or not. Microcalcifications are not always a concern, they can just be fibrous gristle. Titanium marker was removed with breast.
Bren Oh gosh! I'm sorry that you've been through all of that, that sounds to me too like overtreatment.
I didn't realise that they might not be able to judge the size of the problematic part. And I've realised my reports don't mention how big they think my microcalcifications are.
My surgeon has now referred me for an MRI and then there'll be a decision about if and how to biopsy.
I appreciate hearing about your experience so that I can be prepared for what may come.
Me too, they said the calcification was extensive, pleomorphic segmental & a concern. Clearly not all a concern as your previously benign shows. Best of luck 🤞 keep us updated x
Hi, I was having 6 monthly mammo and ultrasounds due to increased microcalcifications in one breast and family history. Had one core biopsy years ago which no marker was put in. All my recent biopsies have had them. I'm glad screening was increased as changes have been actioned early.
All the best with your screening, waiting for results is always hard.
Gee1 Thank you for sharing. I haven't really heard of people having 6 monthly mammogram and ultrasound so it's helpful to know that might be an option.
Moomincorn I can't remember the medical term - but I had callbacks 4 years in a row following my surgery and had a biopsy (same boob) each time.
It is better that they check anything untoward sooner than later - that shows they are being thorough & proactive. xx.
Putting the clip in will help them identify the spot every time there is a check, I would imagine.
Take care & all the bestThank you arpie - that provides some reassurance to me that repeated biopsies happen, and hopefully that after they've seen the same results a few times they will decide not to keep doing it.
The forgotten clip was a debacle last year but I was hoping they'd be able to see scar tissue or something in the imaging to determine where the last biopsy was taken.
