Me, My Breasts, and I: Results

So, two days ago, I had the ultrasound assisted needle biopsy. Today I got the results.

I was feeling pretty positive about the whole thing. Cysts, in general, are benign, and although they sometimes need further treatment, they are not, as one of the bloggers I follow wrote today, the c-word.

I’ll say, right up front, that my results, while not great, are not (yes, I’ll say it) cancer. What I have is an intraductal papilloma, which is a small growth in my milk duct. I wasn’t aware of it because I had no symptoms, but it can cause nipple discharge and discomfort.

Now here is where my googling efforts and the information from my phone call from the breast center vary. I was told, that, although the intraductal papilloma is benign, it is considered high risk, meaning that if left alone it could become cancerous, and therefore it should be surgically removed. On the other hand, my internet research, for better or worse, informs me that if it is a solitary, small lump (which mine seems to be) it can be left alone unless it becomes bothersome.

So, what’s next? I’ve been directed to schedule an appointment for a consultation with a surgeon. I tell you, there is really something scary when the automatic phone system uses the word ‘oncology’ and your doctor’s name in the same breath. I’ll have to wait until Monday to make the appointment. I’ve been directed to pick up my test results and pathology slides to deliver to the doctor next week. So then, we’ll see. In the meantime, I’ll read and research so that I’ll have a lot of questions to ask the doctor when I see her.

I’ll appreciate hearing about any experience or knowledge that you have.