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Breast Cancer/Increased density in breast tissue
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Question
I just had my second mammogram and ultrasound of my left breast (my first was at 39 due to my OB finding a small lump). I was told I needed to come in for a follow up in six months. When I asked why I was told there was a change since by last mammogram - there is increased density in the tissue of my left breast. What does this mean? I see all the stuff out there on density and cancer but what does a change (increase) in density mean?
It just means that for some reason your tissues there have become denser (more opaque to x-rays) than before. That may be for a number of reasons from an increased water content which may happen in inflammations to an increased mass there which could be a tumor sign. Here there are otherwise no obvious tumor signs so they just want to check you earlier BUT insist on an MRI breast scan too next time so we will have more information of what it actually is! If still unclear then at least a needle biopsy - if possible - should then be done in order to KNOW what it is. Good luck!
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Answers by Expert:
Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.
Expertise
I`m a doctor of medicine and a specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have long experience in diagnostics and treatment of breast tumours.
Experience
I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy educated & trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps.You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 I have no restrictions on the number of questions there.
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I'm a medical doctor and specialist in medical oncology and radiation therapy.
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