Forum Discussion

Thelma1's avatar
Thelma1
Member
20 days ago

Inconclusive Follow up Mammogram

Hi there everyone,

I wanted to see if anyone out there has had a similar experience to me at their follow up scans.  I was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer about 2 years ago, had a lumpectomy and radiation treatment.  I've been having mammograms every 12 months and up until the last scan it's been "nothing to see here".  At my last mammogram, the radiologist said that they noticed some changes around the site of my scar as compared to the previous scan which could be calcification or something else but that they were not worried enough to do a biopsy so come back in 6 months.  I have to say this was not as reassuring as my previous scans where I could walk away and not have to worry/think about things too much.  I do feel like I am a bit in limbo and the fear of recurrence which I normally manage quite well is somewhat heightened.  Just wondered if anyone else has had a similar experience with their scans (ie not conclusive but advised to sit tight for now)?

Thanks All

 

anxiety
post treatment
scans

6 Replies

  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    13 days ago

    Hi Thelma1​ 
    I had callbacks every year for 4+ years after my lumpectomy and radiation - and had biopsies every time. Thankfully, It was always either scar tissue or necrotic something ... but it brought on 'scanxiety' every time tho!

    My original cancer had been missed by Mammogram & was found by my GP 4 months after a 'clear' Mammogram!  Pretty sure it was the Ultrasound that I have yearly now, that picked up the 'issues'.

    They are just being super careful & getting anything tested, 'just in case' ... which is a good thing

    Take care & I hope your next scan is clear xx

    • Thelma1's avatar
      Thelma1
      Member
      1 day ago

      Thanks Arpie - you are right about "scanxiety"!

  • Thelma1's avatar
    Thelma1
    Member
    15 days ago

    Thanks all for your responses and sharing your stories - it really helps seeing that others have been through a similar situation and come out the other side.  

  • Christina_BCNA's avatar
    Christina_BCNA
    Community Manager
    17 days ago

    Hi Thelma1​ , it's perfectly normal to feel this way after a follow up scan, especially when you've been given information that's different to your previous scans. If this is something you are feeling uneasy about, there is nothing wrong with letting your radiologist know that you'd feel more comfortable if they have a closer look at the calcification/changes sooner rather than later. There is also nothing wrong with getting a second opinion. If there's anything you'd like to chat about, please don't hesitate to call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 :)

  • Daisies's avatar
    Daisies
    Member
    18 days ago

    Hi Thelma, 

    Like you I had lumpectomy then radiotherapy first in about 2012. About 6 years after that my mammogram, like yours, seemed to be inconclusive. Think I had a repeat mammogram then MRI, without a particular issue being identified. I was a bit sick of being poked and prodded so chose to leave it until the next routine mammogram, thinking any issue would declare itself by then. And it did! By the time of the next mammogram the scar site was puckering, so of course a biopsy was then done, and a cancer of a different type found! Then it was chemotherapy and mastectomy. I remain well and thankful that once the problem was identified I received very good treatment.   All I can say is chase it up if you are concerned, and be sure to get notified about results. There was some confusion with me over whether the GP or the hospital clinic were following up with the biopsy results. Best of wishes to you

    Heather

  • Beatha's avatar
    Beatha
    Member
    19 days ago

    Hi Thelma.  I’m on pretty  much the same timetable as you.  And same treatments.  My cancer couldn’t be seen in a mammogram so I am equally nervous.  But my scans are still followed up by an appointment with my breast surgeon.  So any questions like this can be answered and followed up if need be.  I think you need to follow through and see whoever is responsible for your annual checks.  You should be being followed for five years.  It’s impossible to not worry IMHO,  but you should have back up from a specialist.  Your cancer care centre or surgeon.  What state are you in?  That might help get you more specific advice.  Yeah and you’re not crazy or being silly or stressing over nothing.  It’s all a big huge deal.  Hugs.