Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 11/21/2007

Question
I am a 41 year old, with no history of breast cancer on either side of parents.  I have never married, have no children orhave ever been pregnant.  I also never took birth control.  I had my first mammogram 2 wks ago and am sceduled for a sonogram in 2 wks.
Mammogram results as follows:

exam: shows density of left breast a 1cm , between 4 and 5 o'clock.  a 1.5 cm density is seen int he medical aspect of right breast.  Moderate fibroglandular tissue is seen bilaterally.  Exam is baseline study, no prior films available for comparison.

Recommendation: sonogram and spot views are advised for evaluation

BI-RAD Level 0:  assessment incomplete

I am a little nerous and anxious because I really don't understand degrees of concern with the levels of density present (cm).  Could you please tell me if I should be concerned, somewhat concerned or very concerned with this report.. Thank YOU  

Answer
Even without any breast cancer family history you are in a risk zone here due to your age, no children and no breast feeding. To be sure of what this is I suggest the following. Apart from the ultrasonograms your mammograms should also be complemented with MRI breast scans and at least needle biopsies of your 2 masses should be done. With these actions done we should have a clear picture of your situation! DEMAND IT! At present any other reply from me would at best only be educated guesswork. It is better to KNOW! I fear that unless you demand these things the only thing that will happen will just be that you will get a new appointment for new mammograms etc. in a few months for comparison and follow up, but why wait when it can be concluded now?! Good luck! Please do keep me posted!