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This is not a poll but I have a question. Last October I had a medical exam. I had noticed a lump in my right breast. I told the nurse practitioner and ended up getting scheduled to a breast exam which is basically a mammogram. Six months later I got a letter asking me to schedule another exam. Have any of you ladies ever experienced having a lump in your breast or been diagnosed with breast cancer? Does his have anything to do with gynecomastia? I know this is kinda personal but I’m a little concerned with what might happen next.
Thank you,
Kerri
Well Kerri, you got me to respond with my gynecomastia adventure. Just a few years before I grew my breasts spontaneously (over 40 years ago) I developed a thumb sized tumor in my right breast. I was quite concerned and saw my doctor. The tumor was removed in a day surgery and I was assured that it was nothing to be concerned about. I was questioned extensively as to whether or not I had been injured there or did I take any drugs or medications (nope !) and that was the end of that. Then just a few years later I suddenly began to grow real significant breasts and nipples. That totally freaked me and that was the beginning of my realization of my intersex condition (more in my profile if your interested). I ended up with a small 36B rack and prominent nipples however my right breast was always a little smaller and misshapen. I sometimes think that the thumb tumor was my female side wake up call. A few years ago when I turned 70, my breasts started to deflate and slide down my chest (sad face here...now I usually wear a pushup bra when going out). My physician and I go back and forth as to if I need a mammogram and currently it's something that she and I will consider at my next exam. I have no problem either way and I just go about my life like an older woman doing my daily work and trying to look as good as possible. I've known other intersex folks with similar stories. Do advocate for yourself and be watchful. Breast cancer is a reality even for our group. Hugs, Marg
Marg, thank you for your reply. I am going to schedule another exam soon so will know if anything bad is happening. As much as I would like to have breasts, I live 99% of my life as a male and they would be a real problem for me family wise. It’s tough getting old no matter what your gender is.
Kerri
I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers, Kerri.
XO Shawna
Hey, Kerri.
Here are a couple of my thoughts regarding your concerns.
As you likely know, approximately 1 in 8 cis-gender females in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer. Of course, that’s a pretty big number. Approximately 1% of all breast cancer cases occur in cis-gender males. Generally, the majority of cases in males are found between the ages of 60-70. So, while its not particularly common among males, its not exactly rare either.
The evaluation of “breast lumps” in males, and this includes gynecomastia, is identical to that of females. The first step is a clinical evaluation (breast, axilla, supraclavicular space). This is then followed by a mammogram. Ultrasound may be used along with mammography to further characterize lumps.
Today, mammograms are very sensitive. However, they are not perfect. The radiologist reviews your mammograms, and this is frequently accompanied by additional computer scans (the generic term AI). Whenever there is any question, uncertainty, unusual clinical history (such as yours) or unusual family history, a short interval follow-up mammogram is scheduled, usually in 3-6 months. These follow-up studies are then compared to the prior studies.
Another point of consideration here is that you are a Medicare beneficiary (per your profile). Radiology providers of mammography services are required by law to have a written notification system for the results and for reminders of future studies and appointments. These are typically form letters and certainly not very warm and fuzzy!
In summary, while all of this is concerning to you, you should have some consolation that folks are paying attention to you and your ongoing healthcare needs.
I hope this provides some clarification for you. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns! Hugs,
Dr. Dee
Thank you for your comments Dr. Dee.
My endocrynologist does a breast exam on me every visit. She has suggested that I consider having a mammogram, but I have not followed through and she has not been at all insistent. She has not told me there is any reason for concern. I am pleased to know she would recommend such a procedure to me and believe she would encourage me more strongly if she found anything suspicious. I know women find the procedure unpleasant, but I think I would enjoy the experience if only because it would reinforce my feminine leanings and desire for acceptance of that part of me. I would not hesitate to do this if a physician felt there is a real concern or urged me.
After having a mammogram last year I can say that it is an uncomfortable and invasive experience. But if it’s necessary to show whether I’ve got a serious problem or not, I’ll do it again.