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Posted 7/16/2007 7:12 PM (GMT 0)
I am 41 and just had my second mammogram.  I received a letter stating there was an abnormality and to see my Dr. as soon as possible.  I called and they are sending me in for more views.  She said there is an asymmetrical density in my right breast.  I am a fairly well endowed woman, but out of the two my right is the smaller breast.

Should I be worried?  What does asymmetrical density even mean?

Thank you for any and all info. And please be frank.  My insurance runs out the 2nd of Oct. so whatever this is better be taken care of asap right?

Posted 7/17/2007 12:23 AM (GMT 0)
I wouldn't worry to much yet, just get into the doc as soon as you can and follow up on everything, be on top of it. Hang in there!
Posted 7/17/2007 12:25 AM (GMT 0)
Asymmetrical means it is not even, the edges are different. Sometimes words like spicular are used, which means the thing showed up on the films as spider like. The only true way to find out what the tumor or abnormality is would be to have a biopsy. Drs play guessing games as to whether a spot looks like it is benign or malignant, but there is no sure answer until a biopsy and pathology are done. So if it comes to that, remember it is the best and only way to know for sure what you are dealing with. Sometimes they do an ultra sound first. May I ask why your insurance is running out? If there is something there, you need insurance for longer than October. How about COBRA? As long as you have insurance you need to keep it going. If you are found to have breast cancer and your insurance lapses, you will have a pre existing condition and probably will not be able to get new insurance, at least that would cover breast cancer. There are also cancer insurance policies that might help, but once you have heard that diagnosis, forget them, too. Do you have any friends in the insurance business you might talk to and help you? I know buying coverage is expensive but there are special insurances for professional people that cover emergencies and other conditions. Do some fast checking, it may save you a lot in the long run. Let us know how it all goes. Hugs Mary K.
Posted 7/17/2007 1:12 AM (GMT 0)
Asymmetrical means not even, not the same. It may not be referring to the edges, but you mentioned density. That means that the density, as measured by the mammogram, is not consistent. That could suggest it is solid, not fluid. Cysts are fluid filled, so a ball of liquid would look the same throughout. A solid mass, which can be benign or malignant, would be visible on a mammogram in some cases. THis does not mean cancer, nor does it mean benign. It does mean that the doctor wants to get a good look at it to be sure. Don't be surprised if they want to do an ultrasound or even take a biopsy sample. Getting a better look or even a sample is the only way to be sure.

Hang in there!
Lori
Posted 7/17/2007 3:29 AM (GMT 0)
I quit working last December I also have Crohns Disease. Anyway I have a 6 month temporary insurance policy that ends on Oct. 2nd. I might add that I have already used up the $750 perscription allowance. So I guess that means anything I get I'll have to pay for out of pocket. Wow I sure hope that I am worried for nothing. The thought of having cancer is scary enough without the added stress of how to pay for it. *sigh*
Thank all you kind ladies for the information.
Hugs
Mel
Posted 7/17/2007 4:19 AM (GMT 0)
Mel, obviously, we are not doctors and can't interpret your test results, just offer suggestions on what it might mean. Areas of density are common in younger women. They become concerned when they see aarea of density in one breast that they don't see in the other. Our bodies tend toward symmetry.   That could be another explantation of asymmetrical density. Your doctor probably has a better understanding of how they use terminology in your area, because it does differ from place to place.

The problem with density is that it can hide a breast cancer, so they usually do spot compressions of the area in question to see if they can get a better read on what might be there. It may turn out to be nothing...just the way the tissue was compressed in that area. That has happened to me on my remaining breast.  Or they may want to do additional tests, such as ultrasound, or even a biopsy.

I agree with MK on the insurance thing. Is this a COBRA benefit? Because you are typically eligible for COBRA for up to 18 months, and while it is expensive, it may be worth it. If you have a serious health issue, then you can, I think, even get it extended for the areas of health concern...and I would think Crohn's disease would qualify. Obviously, we don't know all the particulars there, but I would find out before October 2.

Hope this turns out to be nothing, which is very possible. Sounds like they are just trying to be thorough, and believe me, we have plenty of women who come here who wish they had gotten thorough exams and tests.

Let us know how it goes, okay?

Hugs...
BEV
Posted 7/17/2007 1:18 PM (GMT 0)
I am not sure if I can get Cobra since this was a temporary 6 month policy, but I will check into it today. Thanks again ladies and I will let you know what I find out Thursday.
Hugs,
Mel
Posted 7/17/2007 10:44 PM (GMT 0)
I thought I might add the reason I am a little freaked out. My maternal grandparents died of lung and liver cancer, having never drank or smoked. My mother died at 44 from ovarian cancer. I had a carcinoma in situ in my cervix and had a hysterectomy just over 5 yrs ago. And when I say just over, I mean my hyst. was in Mar of 2002.
I know I should remain calm until I have real reason to worry. *ohm* I try. You ladies are a real inspiration. Thanks again for all your info. I am sure it's nothing, but it has helped coming here to vent. I'll let you know how it goes come Thursday. *crossfingers*
Hugs,
Mel
Posted 7/19/2007 4:42 PM (GMT 0)
I would suggest that you check into your state insurance policy if your state has one.  These policies are expensive but well worth it.  They have to take you if you cannot get any other insurance and you will be covered should you need treatment.  They covered most of my breast cancer costs which were outrageous but I was able to handle the deductible and first 20% costs. I have to keep my state covered insurance as I can no longer get any other insurance because I would now be considered to have a pre-existing condition.  Try to get the COBRA - I think by law they have to give it to you.  What ever you do be sure you have some kind of insurance.

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