Understanding Fibroadenoma with ADH/ALH: What You Need to Know

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I'm 51, permi-menopausanl and recently had a fibroadenoma removed. The report said - Breast biopsy - fibroadenoma. It went on to say adh and alh in the adjacent tissue. It also said that margins of excision are negative for atypia.

My breast surgeon said that all this means is that I'm at an increased risk to develop breast cancer in the future. She recommended yearly mammos at this point.

I have a couple of questions. Would the report have said complex fibroadenoma if that was seen, or is it automatically a complex FA because atypcal cells were seen adjacent.

Also, does the fact that there were both types of atypia raise my risk factor or are they inclusive rather than additional. I also have dense breasts-not sure how dense though. I understand this also raises my risk. What are your thoughts on my situation. How worried should I be? Thank you for your time.
Gina

ANSWER: If there had been any complicating factor with your fibroadenoma itself that would have been mentioned.  I agree with your doctor that yearly mammographies should be done from now on. And since you have dense breasts your mammographies SHOULD be complemented with ultrasound AND MRI breast scans!  All women at your age should have regular mammographies. Your risk is somewhat higher than average but there is no reason to make this situation more dramatic than that. Good luck!

I have some computer problems so unfortunately my reply is delayed.

You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so much for the quick reply.

Does the fact that both ADH and ALH were seen increase the risk, or is the risk combined? In other words is the risk stacked on top of each other.  
gina

Answer
There are many factors (including ADH & ALH) contributing to your risks including your age and the fact that you have dense breasts and have had a fibroadenoma. Each of these factors - with some exception with regards to that of your age - however carry a rather small amount of risk but they all add up (or rather combine) to produce your level of risk.


I have some computer problems so unfortunately my reply is delayed.

You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128