Hi Amberhere, A mammogram is always a good idea. I usually ask for an ultrasound because it is an opportunity for a better cancer check too. Breast exams are routine, but with DM/PM it is important to get excellent testing.

Did you do a full body ct scan? A ct scan would cover every organ too.

I don't think Myositis is an indication of needing a mammogram. I think a mammogram is necessary annually after you are 40. But the risk of breast cancer is not increased with Myositis.

I also don't run out for lots of other scans as I try to monitor my radiation load. Having preventative scans without symptoms seems unnecessary to me. (Mammograms excluded.)

I do think you need to follow the standard screening recommendations (colonoscopy when 50, mammograms at 40, etc) but see no reason to rush them otherwise unless you are having problems or concerns.

Hi Amberhere. I think its something you must discuss with your rheumatologist or the a Rheumatology Nurse. They will have all the blood test results and know your auto antibodies. They are in the best position to advise and refer you if necessary. Are you at the age when you are routinely called up every three years by the National Screening programme. I had a mammogram , ct scan, MRI, bone scan at diagnosis before the results of the auto antibody tests were through. Best wishes. Autumm

Hi, I did have a CT scan earlier on in my diagnosis and a bone density scan, chest x ray and ultrasound but that was only on my stomach. I didn't have a MRI. Thanks for your comments.

Hi Amberhere. I had the MRI to look for inflammation in my legs as part of the diagnosis. They could see lots of it and it was also to show them best site for muscle biopsy. I have JO1 antibody which is myositis specific. Because he could see the inflammation, I had the JO1 and had already started the Prednisone he cancelled the muscle biopsy. As you learn more about this disease you will have more questions when you see your Rheumatologist. I think different people have different tests for different reasons. All the best to you. Autumm

Hi Amberhere. I forget do much now about those early days and have just remembered I also had a cardiac echo an ultrasound and an ECG. When I finished the prednisone last December he sent me fir a Dexa scan. Bones were in excellent shape as he had started me on Alendronic acid and D3 with calcium , just in case. Autumm