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I recently had my yearly mammography. I have to go back for a "special view" of the left breast due to possible breast tissue folding over. Is this common?
I will also be having an ultrasound.
Female
asked Jan 24, 2011 at 07:06AM in Oncology/Cancer
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1VotesThis is very common, and often called an asymmetric density. Something new can show up on an annual mammogram that can be eliminated by "special views" or compression views. Another possible problem with mammograms of this type is timing with the menstrual cycle.
If films are taken in the 7 - 10 days before onset of a period, fluid retention in the breast tissue can look like a density not seen in previous mammograms. So it is important for premenopausal women to time the films to the first 10 days of their menstrual cycle for optimal images.-
Thanks foryour answer. Yes they also refer to it as a skin flap. You always feel anxious though. But, I have a mammogram every year. I am 59 and have not menstrated for 2 years now so that is not an issue although I hear Menopause brings its own set of issues as far as mammograms.Female commented Jan 25, 2011 at 05:03AM
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answered Jan 25, 2011 at 12:57PMI can understand why you are a bit anxious. These types of special views are really nerve-wracking, but it's great that the medical staff is investigating, which is so much better than ignoring the problem or saying "Let's see what happens and wait."
Just make sure that the radiologist answers all your questions and explains everything clearly.
Good luck with this. -
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answered Jan 26, 2011 at 06:31AMBeing asked to return for "another look" is actually quite common. I had this experience myself a few years ago. I was asked to come back for more "pictures" and things turned out to be fine at that time. Also, having an ultrasound is not uncommon either. It's a second opinion by a second machine, so to speak. I agree with Beth, it's good to be thorough and also be sure to get all of your questions answered to your satisfaction. Good luck. -
0Votesanswered Feb 04, 2011 at 08:38AMThanks to all who answered my questions. My results were good. No concerns after an ultrasound and a compression view. Tissue folding over was the issue. However the recommendation is for another visit in 6 months. Why is this necessary if all is well - can it not be one year again?
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answered Feb 05, 2011 at 07:56PMThe six month follow-up (and then a mammogram on both sides in12 months) are standard practice. The reasoning being that some things on a mammogram have a tendency to come and go with fluid retention in the breast tissue (cysts and such).
The other reason for follow up at that interval, is protection against a mammogram which may have used a different technique, and the second normal mammogram acts as a safety net for you now, and as a future reference.
It is more costly this way, but safer.-
Thanks I understand now. Not sure if they will do another ultrasound but I will go back. I am in Ontario Canada so we are covered for all these tests so why not be safe. Thanks again.Female commented Feb 06, 2011 at 06:21AM
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0Votesanswered Feb 05, 2011 at 08:33PMI'm really glad your results were good!! When it comes to medical information and testing, my philosophy is better-safe-than-sorry. I would personally want a followup in six months vs. 12 months because of this. Dr. McGlone's answer is really informative. I also agree with Nancy.
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