I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Off-Topic => Other Severe Medical Conditions => Topic started by: vandie on June 28, 2009, 07:28:53 AM

Title: Breast Biopsy
Post by: vandie on June 28, 2009, 07:28:53 AM
After having my regular mammogram in May, on 6/1, I had a followup mammogram and ultrasound. They reviewed my last two mammos and found I had an increased number of calcifications that were suspicious for malignancy.   I was scheduled for a biopsy on 6/23.  I wasn't scared at the time.  I am an optimist but also a realist.  I know the chances are slim that I would have breast cancer.  No family history.  So I went to the biopsy with just slight apprehension. 
I wouldn't be this concerned had I not spoken to my doctor since and realized the combination of being on immunosuppresants and the fact that a kidney transplant patient's chance of getting breast cancer is twofold compared to the general population.  Now I am on pins and needles.  I just need the all clear. 
Just wanted to keep my IHD family updated in case anyone else has to go through this.

Much love,
Vandie
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: monrein on June 28, 2009, 07:34:17 AM
I hope Vandie that your experience will turn out to be like mine.  I often had calcifications and even little fluid cysts that were discovered during routine mammograms.  Upon needle biopsy followup, they all turned out to be nothing to worry about and I was immunosuppressed at the time.  I've been through this 4 or 5 times.  Please continue NOT to worry until there's actually something to worry about.  On the other hand I am always concerned and very vigilant about possible trouble with sun exposure and I always wear serious sunscreen.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: vandie on June 28, 2009, 08:01:23 AM
Thank you monrein for your words.
They did a core needle biopsy so I am sure they will get a good look and call me and tell me I have the all clear.
I am always cautiously optimistic about things.  I have to be somewhat prepared because I hate surprises, especially medical ones.


Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: rose1999 on June 28, 2009, 09:05:22 AM
Wishing you all the best Vandie  :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: lola on June 28, 2009, 09:08:47 AM
Vans sending you :grouphug; :grouphug; :grouphug; :grouphug; :grouphug; xoxoxoxo
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: thegrammalady on June 28, 2009, 10:47:57 AM
keeping you in my thoughts, wishing you the best.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: willowtreewren on June 28, 2009, 11:16:39 AM
Waiting for the results is hard. Sending you good wishes.

 :cuddle; :grouphug;

Aleta
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: cookie2008 on June 28, 2009, 11:33:36 AM
Wishing you the best  :grouphug;.   
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Rerun on June 28, 2009, 11:37:03 AM
Yes Vandie, I have gone through the exact thing.  Regular mammogram which led to the intensified mammogram which led to the biopsy which led to the open excision biopsy.  It was nothing.

If you have ever been on dialysis for an extended period of time, you have calcification.  I'll never go through all that again.  But, again, I'm not wanting another kidney either.

You will be fine!   :flower;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: paris on June 28, 2009, 01:40:37 PM
Keeping you in my thoughts, Vandie.  Let us know when you find out the results.  Don't look too far ahead; today, then tomorrow.   :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: okarol on June 28, 2009, 03:37:21 PM
Hoping all comes back fine vandie dear!
I know immunosuppressants keep your body from fighting things it normally would, like cancer.
I am glad your doctor is being thorough. Please let us know as soon as you can.
Lots of LOVE sweet girl!
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: vandie on June 29, 2009, 06:35:30 PM
I received my biopsy results from my doctor today. 
I have breast cancer; Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).  It is confined to the ducts and considered to be the most noninvasive of breast cancers. 
I won't know until Wednesday when I meet with the surgeon, how we are going to proceed from here.  If it is confined to a small area, it can be taken care of with a lumpectomy.  If it covering a greater area, a mastectomy may be required.  Sometimes radiation is involved, but not always.  That is something for the Oncologist to help me with.
I will keep you updated as I learn more.  I wasn't expecting this, I need to do a little research.  Thank you for the positive thoughts.

xoxo
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: lola on June 29, 2009, 06:43:09 PM
OMG Vans, I don't know what to say other then xoxoxoxoxxo :grouphug; :grouphug; :grouphug; :grouphug; and you will be in my prayers for a fast recovery. Luv u girlfriend
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: okarol on June 29, 2009, 08:59:43 PM

Crap. That just sucks vandie. I am so sorry you have to go through this.
 :cuddle;  :cuddle;  :cuddle;
Love you so much.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: charee on June 29, 2009, 10:29:19 PM
Thinking of you Vandie :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Sunny on June 30, 2009, 12:03:43 AM
Vandie,
I am so sorry to hear about this. I was really hoping your biopsy would turn out fine. I think you are doing the smart thing in researching all your options for the kind of breast cancer you have. I hope you find it can be cared for simply. I hold out good thoughts for you.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Wattle on June 30, 2009, 12:48:18 AM
 :Kit n Stik;  Oh Vandie that really stinks!!

I will be thinking of you.  :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Sluff on June 30, 2009, 04:30:08 AM
Oh my Dear Vandie girl, I do hope things go smoothly for you no matter which procedure you have to follow.  Keep your spirits up girl.     :grouphug;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: monrein on June 30, 2009, 05:43:34 AM
Vandie, I was/am distressed to hear this news.  I hope that all can be resolved with the most minimally invasive treatment and I will be thinking of you.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Bajanne on June 30, 2009, 06:50:12 AM
Vandie, I only just read this and my caring thoughts and prayers are with you.  From the time I saw the title 'Breast Biopsy'  I had a serious flashback since I went through all of that nearly 16 years ago.  And the result was the same - ductal carcinoma.   Here I am 16 years later!!!  We are survivors, girl  :cuddle;
I will be listening out to hear from you.  We are with you all the way. :grouphug;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Des on June 30, 2009, 07:00:11 AM
my thoughts are with you.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: karen547 on June 30, 2009, 09:42:51 AM
I am so sorry Vandie! I am keeping you in my thoughts
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: vandie on July 01, 2009, 03:43:44 PM
Hi All.  I saw the surgeon today. 
I will be getting a mastectomy with reconstructive surgery.  Because they will be taking the entire breast, radiation will not be necessary. 
My next step is to see the plastic surgeon.  If he agrees, I will be able to have the mastectomy and the reconstructive surgery at the same time.

There is a slight chance that the DCIS could be invasive.  They will check the breast when it is removed and confirm.  If so, they will take lymph nodes at that time.  I am going with no, but have to be prepared for anything. 

Although this is a major nuisance, it is all going ot be okay in several weeks.  Of course, as always, I will keep you posted.

And please, learn with me, get your mammograms.  Because this was caught early, I don't have to go through radiation or chemo.  Just one, perhaps two, surgeries.

xoxo
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Sunny on July 01, 2009, 04:39:25 PM
At least it was caught early. Your recovery will probably be quicker. I'll be praying for you and wish you the best.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: MandaMe1986 on July 01, 2009, 05:55:18 PM
well I am just reading that now. So I am sorry and here with ya. And thank God they caught it now.  Good luck  :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: okarol on July 01, 2009, 07:20:05 PM

Good news Vandie!! I hope all goes well. When is the surgery? Do they adjust your immunosuppressants to aid in healing? It sounds ideal to have only one surgery, but I know you'll do whatever it takes to have the greatest success. Best wishes!
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: rose1999 on July 01, 2009, 10:57:07 PM
Vandie I'm sorry to hear the diagnosis, I had hoped it would turn out to be nothing. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and hope for a quick and positive result to your surgery. 
Sending lots of love  :cuddle; :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Hanify on July 02, 2009, 12:42:51 AM
You are amazing.  Thinking of you.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Sluff on July 02, 2009, 04:20:43 AM
I love your optimism and strength. Good luck and I hope all goes well.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: tamara on July 02, 2009, 04:39:11 AM
Vandie, I love the way you have described it as "a major nuisance" and thats all its going to be you tell it who's boss !

Thinking of you and I'm with bajanne, we are survivors you show it how much strength you've got to take it on

In my thoughts


Tamara xxxx oooo


Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Des on July 02, 2009, 06:58:10 AM
I will be thinking of you....

My friend had a double mastectomy and she says the emotional pain is far more than the surgical pain. Please remember that we are here for you. If you want to talk........
Hugs
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: paris on July 08, 2009, 04:31:58 PM
Vandie,  my sister in law said when she had a double mastectomy, that "they are attached to me, I am not attached to them!"   They caught hers early also, no chemo no radiation and she is doing great.  It is a process but you live with such grace and style, you will handle this like all the other bumps in your road.    I'll keep saying lots of healing prayers.   Love you!!!   :cuddle;
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Jill D. on July 16, 2009, 05:20:38 PM
Vandie - I have not been on the site much the last couple of months, and am truly sorry to hear what you have been going through. I wish you all the best, and for healing inside and out after your surgery and reconstruction. Love and hugs  :cuddle; Jill
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: marti824 on July 31, 2009, 05:42:02 AM
just read your post, I am so sorry.  I've been through a partial mastectomy and radiation, honestly, the dialysis is worse, its never ending.  thoughts and prayers are with you for a speedy recovery.
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: willowtreewren on July 31, 2009, 07:43:26 AM
Many hugs and healing thoughts coming to you. Remember that you are defined by who you are in the inside. The rest is window dressing.

Keep your good spirit.

 :flower;

 :grouphug;

Aleta
Title: Re: Breast Biopsy
Post by: Bajanne on August 04, 2009, 07:30:06 AM
How are you doing, Vandie?  I have been thinking about you.  :cuddle;