Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Understanding Pathology Results Questions explaining and understanding pathology results. |
3,074 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/21/2011 | Pathology report after stereotactic biopsy for micro calcifications rt breast as follows: fibrocystic changes w stromal fibrosis & focal columnar cell metaplasia w mild atypia. Micro calcifications are detected- no evidence of malignancy. Could you please interpret this for me. I'm confused w wording. Appears no mallignancy but indicates cancer too? Have been advised that excisional biopsy should be done - is this best course or are there others options-is 2nd opinion needed? I would be very appreciative of any input you could provide. Iam extremely thankful for the help that you provide and for the compassion & caring! Thank you - I know it means so very much to all that are using this website. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 10/23/2011 | Thank you for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center. From what you have shared, there is no evidence or mention of breast cancer. Microcalcifications need to be biopsied, but not because any confirmation of cancer. Breast imaging is an excellent screening tool, and it did it's job! So next step is biopsy of microcalcs. But we would biopsy by a minimally invasive procedure (standard of care) using core needle, not by excisional biopsy where you must go to the OR and be put to sleep. A second opinion at a Comprehensive Breast Center might be helpful in terms of ability to perform minimally invasive bx. Hope this helps and best wishes. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.