Breast calcification *UPDATE*

I`m sorry I don`t know what calcification is. You can do a search on the internet and maybe find out something. 
 
What I can say is that you and your family and your Mom are in our prayers.

This info is from a brochure I picked up last week when I had my mammogram done:
Calcifications are calcium deposits. There are two types, micro and macro and " . . .macrocalcifications are large and indicate a benign condition and do not require a biopsy. Microcalcifications are tiny specks of calcium that may appear alone or in clusters. An area of microcalcification does not always mean that cancer is present." It goes on to say that the majority of microcalcifications are benign, but sometimes, even with a benign appearance, follow up mammograms are indicated 4 to 6 months later, or if there is an uncertain or suspicious appearance a biopsy may be ordered. Given your family history it sounds like they are being thorough, which is exactly what you want.

[linkhttp://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Aboutcancer/Pre-cancerousconditions/Breastcalcifications#6549]http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Aboutcancer/Pre-cancerousconditions/Breastcalcifications#6549[/link]

Thanks all...I was too much of a scaredy butt to google it or anything, afraid of what might turn up. But that is all some promising information. And thanks for the good thoughts...

It's cancer. My mom didn't want to tell me until I went home, but I'm not going home until Christmas Eve, and she didn't want to kill Christmas...
 
They caught it early, she's lucky. But lucky seems kind of ironic when your mom has cancer.
 
 

I've not been on much due to computer issues, so I just saw this.  I am so very sorry that your mom's diagnosis is cancer.  The good news, besides being caught early, is that treatments are more effective nowadays.  I have two very good friends who are 5-year survivors and still doing well.  The first year, during treatments, was rough, but they are hanging in there.  Thoughts and prayers for your mom & {{{hugs}}} for you.

I am so sorry to hear that but at the same time so glad they found it early.  Medicine has come such a long way since your other family members had it and it is often times a very treatable disease.  The Cancer word is always really scary though anyway no matter what!  We will keep you and your family in our prayers and hope for the very best outcome.  Please keep us posted on her progress. 

Because you now seem to have a significant family history, it might be advantageous to be tested for the BRCA-1 or BRCA-2 gene that is responsible for genetic forms of the disease.  What you don't know can hurt you.
I hope everything turns out well for your mom, and that she becomes a long term survivor.  <<>>

Oh Megan, I am so sorry. I heartily second spiritdogs advice as well. My thoughts are with you, your Mom and your whole family.

Thanks guys. [] 
 
I've considered getting tested for the gene, but I heard it was expensive, and I am a broke college kid. So it's gonna have to wait a few years.

Megan, you ALL are in my thoughts.  I'm sending good vibes to you both.  ((Megan))

I just saw this thread... I'm so sorry they found out your mom has cancer.  Catching it early is so important.  Sending prayers and good thoughts out to you, your mom and your family.  And although you're young, please keep an eye on your health too. 

I'm sorry to hear about the diagnosis, but as others have said, finding it early is a good thing.  I've had 3 friends diagnosed with breast cancer just this year.  All are doing good and in various stages of treatment.  I hope your mom's treatment goes smoothly and I'm sure she'll need lots of love and support from you and the rest of the family.  Take care of yourself too though.

I believe that they can test your mom's cancer for more specific information that might give you an idea if it is a genetic type.  I went thru genetic counseling all the way up to having the actual test.  While I think it's a wonderful thing, it has some pitfalls, such as insurance coverage.  I don't believe you can be denied coverage if you're tested and found to have the gene, but you can be considered high-risk and they can charge astromical rates to cover someone like you or me.  I chose not to have the test done and just have screenings (mammo and pelvic ultrasound) done every year.  I'm sure your mom's Dr. can give you more information.  Having a family history means you should become ultra-educated about breast cancer. 

and I am a broke college kid. So it's gonna have to wait a few years.

Firstly, I am sorry to hear of your mom's cancer diagnosis.  That being said, you are at a much higher risk yourself and I'd hate to see you wait.  Discuss this with your OB/GYN and at the very least have a baseline mammogram done now.  Insurance may cover this considering your family history.

Although it's hard not to be afraid, don't be.  Think of it as a screening tool and it's meant to find something.  If it does, than it's treated and you move on.  If it doesn't, then you have at least been screened and have your normal basline to follow.

My sister was diagnosed with BC 3 yrs. ago and so far is cancer free.  I am now at higher risk and get my mammogram yearly.  I always have that little jolt of fear, but then rationally tell myself at least it will be caught early and can be treated. 

Just be there for your mom and she'll know you care.