Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 1/9/2009

Question
The world is full of questions.  Six months ago I had gone to the doctor because I was haing chest pain in the upper chest area. He sent me for a mamo, which I was contacted for further testing, I had a spot compression and an ultrasound. The shadow was there alright, the images were read, and I was told I would be back in six months, to have more testing done, to compare.  I haven't heard from that testing, but I am 52, bresat cancer runs on my mothers side of her family, as well as heart diease, which I have along with three MI to my credit. I was upset that they let this go with no explaniation, just said nothing. Is there something I should insist on, my doctor said they would retest in six months.  My chest cavity and am pits have been really bad with pain in the last three months, they say its heart burn, (which) I don't have.  I am now worried that maybe this shadow has something to do with it.
Thank you

Answer
I think you should insist on having your mammography & ultrasound breast scans complemented with MRI breast scans AND needle biopsies (stereotactic or ultrasound or MRI guided) of anything seen that is still unclear. That way we will KNOW what it is you have and can act accordingly if necessary! AND you will not need to worry without reason! Good luck!