Watch and Wait?

[Tracey]

My doctors have been watching my "good" breast for over six months now. An MRI last spring had some areas of enhancement that were recommended for follow up in 6 months. So, last month I had a follow up MRI, which came back "suspicious for malignancy." My doctor suggested I repeat the MRI at a different point in my cycle, which I did this week. Now it has come back as "probably benign" areas of enhancement, with follow up in 6 months recommended. I'd like to relax, but I just don't feel very confident. I'm wondering, how long are these kinds of things usually followed? Will I be following these areas every 6 months for the rest of my life? Is it possible for an MRI to miss a cancer? I haven't spoken to my own doctor, since he's out this week and another doctor whom I've never met called me. This doctor didn't sound at all familiar with my case, and didn't put me at ease over this situation. I am afraid I will worry for the entire next 6 months. Any info or insight appreciated.

[leo]

Hello

Difficult situation. Even though you can have a benign or malignant lesion, these situations are done when patients want to avoid going in for a biopsy, which has all the risks and all... but you should express your concerns to your doctor, and if you are willing to get the area biopsied, it may help you answer your question at once.

regards,
Leo

[MuttsMom]

Hi,
The waiting is such a hard thing to do especially once we've had BC. My thinking is don't wait. Get the incisional biopsy done and if it's B9, which I'm praying it is, you can relax. If it's not, then you can get a jump on things. The last thing you want to do IF it is cancer again, is give it more time to grow. The only good lump, is one in a jar.
Please keep us posted.
Nancy

[MNlady13]

I've never been a fan of the Watch And Wait game. I agree with Nancy, get a biopsy and find out what you are dealing with for certain. I love her phrase, "The only good lump is one in a jar." Good luck to you and keep us posted. You have caring friends here who are in your corner. Hugs, Lauri (8 and 7)

[Tracey]

Thanks Dr. Leo and all who replied. I will let you know what happens, if anything.