Topic Summary: Navigating Breast Abnormalities & Screening Results

Guest: Dr. Melissa Kaptanian, a breast cancer surgeon at Logan Health who has practiced in the Flathead area for 18 years.

1. Finding a Breast Lump

• Reassurance: 80% to 90% of breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous), often consisting of cysts or fibrous/fatty growths.
• Lump Characteristics: Soft, squishy, or mobile lumps are usually fluid-filled cysts. Lumps that are hard, painless, fixed in place, and persistent are more suspicious and require physician evaluation.

2. Other Warning Signs & Symptoms

• Visual & Physical Changes: Nipple retraction (pulling inward), unexplained nipple discharge, thick or red skin, significant asymmetry in breast size, or hard/painful lymph nodes under the arm.
• Breast Pain: Pain is rarely the only sign of breast cancer, but it can indicate other issues (such as infections) and should still be checked by a doctor.

3. Understanding Mammogram Callbacks

• Frequency: About 10% of screening mammograms result in a callback, usually because radiologists are being cautious.
• Outcomes: Of those called back for additional imaging (ultrasound, diagnostic mammogram) or a biopsy, only about 10% actually result in a cancer diagnosis.

4. Next Steps & Diagnosis

• Avoid Panic & Internet Searches: Breast cancer forms vary widely. Patients should consult a specialist before assuming prognosis or treatment outcomes.
• Core Takeaway: Listen to and honor your body. If you notice any unusual changes or abnormalities, contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.