Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 4/10/2010

Question
QUESTION: Does a change in breast density mean that someone has an increased risk of getting breast cancer? This is the first time my wife has been asked to have more testing since her breast density has changed.  Naturally, I am concerned and would like your opinion.

ANSWER: Yes that may be the case. It also may make the detection of any breast cancer more difficult. So more investigations may be needed. I mainly mean an increased breast density in this situation.



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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: My wife will be having a sonagram this week.  Since cancer is the main concern, are there other things that would cause the increased density not related to a cancerous situation?  In addition, are there other tests that you would recommend that would provide a more accurate diagnosis?

Answer
Yes an increased density will increase the risk of cancer and will make detection of it more difficult BUT it is not a sure sign of cancer. It may be just a density increase and that is all. Ultrasound breast scans - which she is going to have - is one method to investigate this. An other is MRI breast scans. A third is needle biopsies of any lesions seen by those scans. Those biopsies can be guided by ultrasound or MRI and may even - if the lesions can be seen on mammography - be stereotactically directed based on mammography. Often they can also be guided by touch. I do suggest that all 3 methods are used in her case. Both ways of scanning and biopsies of any lesions seen. That way it will be KNOWN what is there. Good luck!



You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128     There is no restriction to the number of questions there.