Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 7/23/2008

Question
I had a routine mammo on 7/19 and was called back on 7/22 for further testing on an area of concern in the left breast.  After several views were taken, I was told that the area was "normal patchy tissue" and to return in 6 months for another eval.  Can you tell me more about what this means and, if it was normal, why follow up in 6 months is recommended?  I am 51 and this was the first time I encountered an issue in my mammogram.  It was a very scary experience and I did not feel that I had received a good explanation of what happened or whether this would happen to me again in the future.  Any info would be appreciated.

Answer
Well, since I have not seen your pictures I can not be sure. But it seems there was an area of uneven density. If that is a matter of great concern is another matter. Evidently the concern can not be great or they would not have suggested such a long time until next check up. But then comes the next question, why should you have to wait at all when there does exist a method of finding out NOW what it is that is seen! Actually even 2 methods! The x-ray mammograms can be complemented with MRI breast scans (and perhaps also ultrasound scans) in order to obtain more information for a decision. AND a mammography based stereotactic needle biopsy could be used in order to get a pathology diagnosis of what has been seen in the mammogram. If these methods were used you would not have to wait 6 more months - or even more - to get these answers! So demand them! Good luck!