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I am 25 years old, and breast cancer is common in my family. Therefor, even though I am young, I do self exams quite often. I have fibrocystic cysts is my breasts, and know the painful little lumps as soon as I feel them. I few months back while doing an exam I noticed a lump much larger than my normal cysts, and as I was feeling it there was absolutely no pain to it. I thought it was odd, but since I could move it around a little I just shrugged it off as being a big painless cyst. I kept my eye on it (well, fingers) and had thought it was getting bigger. So I went in to my doctor. She felt it and said it was about the size of a bouncy ball and it did in fact move as cysts do, but because it was painless and so large she had me go in to do an ultrasound on it and wanted me to follow up with a biopsy. After the ultrasound I was told by the radiologist that "it is probably just a swollen gland" and that "a biopsy isn't necessary"... Now, if it is "probably" just a swollen gland, why is it so largely swollen and so not painful? And why would there be no following up on it? Is having a swollen glad or even a large painless lump in the breast just something that happens and will go away? I am thinking "probably" not, but was hoping for some information or advice so that I can know what to expect and what to ask when I go light a fire under their butts. Any information helps! Thank you :)
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Hi Anon, and thanks for bringing your concerns to EmpowHER.
Given that you have a family history of breast cancer, you need to be extra vigilant about your breast health and it's clear that you are. While the radiologist has his/her opinion they do not have the final say. You need more information and it may very well be in your best interests - for the sake of both your physical and mental health - to have a biopsy. "Probably" is not a sound medical opinion, and you deserve one. Please get in to see your doctor as soon as you can and get the care and support you need. Let us know the outcome, we certainly wish you all the best.
Regards,
Pat
September 17, 2014 - 6:59pmThis Comment