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Worried - Told I haven't got breast cancer but need another one or two biopsies

Enneiviv
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Routine mammogram showed calcification (I'm 67).  I was given a stereotactic vacuum assisted breast biopsy.  The procedure itself was horrendous and extremely distressing, I felt massive stabbing pain twice and cried out in pain.  I was told I felt pain more than most.  I also had a bleed occur behind one eye, which I have been told is pure coincidence.  That is not my main worry, although still an ongoing problem.

I went back for my results and was told by the consultant that I haven't got cancer.  However, I need to have another biopsy to take more cells to test if any could turn cancerous in the future.  If there are I would need to go back for a third procedure to remove these rogue cells.  He wanted the second biopsy done in two weeks but after he did an ultra scan realised it would be a while before this could be carried out as I had two massive painful lumps, which he said were caused by trauma from the two needle insertions.

This is the letter he sent to my doctor

This patient attended for results of biopsies for area of screen detected calcifications as follows
 
Right breast VAB: Atypical ductal hyperplasia and columnar cell lesions, benign calcification. B3
 
Results explained. MDT recommendation is for Vacuum excision.
 
Patient found the procedure painful and traumatic.
 
On examination: there are two haematomas in the breast at the site of the biopsy:
 
Plan: Review in 4 weeks, re-examine plus post clip mammograms and arrange repeat assessment.
Question:  Does this seem right?  I am worried now that the radiographer did not do the first test properly and that there still could be cancer.  Why did they not do all these tests from the first biopsy?

  • Hello Enneiviv, and thank you for posting,

    I’m really sorry to hear what you’ve been through. It sounds like the procedures have been very painful and distressing for you, and, understandably, the thought of needing another one is worrying, especially if you’re concerned that something may have been missed.

    Not being involved in your care or aware of your full medical history, we’re not able to say why further tests are needed now or whether anything was missed earlier. These are important questions, and the team involved in your care are best placed to talk this through with you.

    Sometimes breast changes can be difficult to fully assess, and it’s not always straightforward to get clear answers straight away. It is reassuring that your case has been discussed at a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting. This means a group of specialists,including radiologists, surgeons, cancer doctors, and specialist nurses, have reviewed your mammograms and results together to decide on the next steps.

    If you’re feeling unsure or worried, it would be a good idea to speak with your hospital team about your concerns. You might want to ask why another VAB is needed and how this will help clarify what’s going on. You could contact the consultant’s secretary to see if it’s possible to speak with them before your next appointment, or your GP may also be able to support you in talking things through.

    I’m sorry we can’t be more specific, but I hope this helps a little. Please do come back to us if you need to. You’re also very welcome to speak with one of our helpline nurses on freephone 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

    Jemma

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