Your Mammogram Report: What Mild Regressive Changes Mean

Mammography

Hello Dr.
Wang, this year I had a mammogram, and the report contains a section that says: "Mammographic lesions: Mild regressive change of the previous irregular equal-density nodule in the lower portion of the left breast, middle third, only seen on the MLO view." What does this mean? I feel a bit panicked and unsure of what to do.

Qiu Xiaojie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/29

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

Hello, the report generated by the physician includes descriptions of the imaging findings, comparisons with previous images, and the physician's final conclusions regarding the classification of the imaging results and recommendations for follow-up.
According to the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (ACR BI-RADS) classification:
- Category 0: Additional imaging evaluation (breast ultrasound) is needed for reassessment.

- Categories 1 & 2: No abnormalities or benign findings; regular screening is recommended.

- Category 3: Probably benign changes; follow-up imaging is suggested within 6 months.

- Categories 4 & 5: Suspicious for malignancy; further diagnostic evaluation is required.

Mammography, when performed by certified professionals, can detect early breast cancer, but its accuracy is not 100%, with approximately 15% of breast cancers being undetectable.
Therefore, even if the results are normal, any unusual symptoms that arise before the next scheduled screening should prompt immediate medical attention.
For women with dense breast tissue, the ability of mammography to detect tumors may be reduced, and breast ultrasound can serve as an adjunctive examination.
If there are any questions regarding the report or if clinical symptoms are present, it is advisable to consult a breast surgery clinic for a comprehensive evaluation by a specialist to determine the appropriate follow-up.
Please take this into consideration, and I wish you good health and safety.

Reply Date: 2022/12/29

More Info

Understanding your mammogram report can indeed be a source of anxiety, especially when encountering terms that may seem alarming. In your case, the report states: "Mammographic lesions: Mild regressive change of the previous irregular equal-density nodule in the lower portion of the left breast, middle third, only seen on the MLO view." Let's break this down to clarify what it means and alleviate some of your concerns.

1. Mammographic Lesions: This term refers to any abnormal findings detected on a mammogram. These can range from benign (non-cancerous) conditions to malignant (cancerous) ones.

2. Mild Regressive Change: The term "mild regressive change" suggests that the previously identified nodule in your breast has shown some signs of improvement or reduction. In medical terminology, "regressive" indicates that the lesion is not growing or worsening. This is a positive sign, as it implies that the nodule may be stabilizing or even shrinking.

3. Irregular Equal-Density Nodule: This describes the characteristics of the nodule that was previously observed. "Irregular" refers to the shape of the nodule, which can sometimes raise suspicion for malignancy. However, the fact that it is described as "equal-density" suggests that it has a similar density to the surrounding breast tissue, which can be a reassuring factor.

4. Location: The report specifies that this nodule is located in the lower portion of the left breast, in the middle third. This information is important for follow-up imaging or monitoring.

5. Only Seen on the MLO View: The MLO (medial-lateral oblique) view is one of the standard angles used in mammography. If the nodule is only visible in this view, it may indicate that it is not as prominent or concerning as it might appear in other views.

Addressing Your Concerns
It's completely normal to feel anxious upon reading medical reports, especially when they involve potential health issues. However, the language used in your report suggests that there is no immediate cause for alarm. Mild regressive changes typically indicate that the lesion is not progressing, which is a positive outcome.

Follow-Up Recommendations
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It is essential to discuss your mammogram results with your healthcare provider. They can provide context, explain the significance of the findings, and recommend any necessary follow-up actions.

2. Regular Monitoring: Depending on your healthcare provider's assessment, they may suggest routine follow-up mammograms to monitor the nodule over time. This is a common practice to ensure that any changes are tracked.

3. Self-Examination: Continue to perform regular breast self-exams and report any new changes or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

4. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about breast health and the importance of regular screenings. Understanding your body and the screening process can empower you and reduce anxiety.

In conclusion, while it's natural to feel apprehensive about findings in your mammogram report, the description of "mild regressive change" is generally a reassuring sign. It indicates that the nodule is not worsening. Always feel free to reach out to your healthcare provider for clarification and support regarding your health. They are there to help you navigate these concerns and ensure your well-being.

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