Breast lump

I have a lump behind my nipple.  I was seen in Nov at breast clinic for an examination, he told it didn't feel suspicious but an ultrasound was recommended.

I had the ultrasound yesterday, the person doing the ultrasound said the lump was benign, didn’t seem concerned. But I then spoke to the specialist afterwards who said it looked benign but he wants me to go back in 3 months for another ultrasound to check it again. Not sure why. They can’t do a needle biopsy due to lumps position, they would have to surgically remove it. I’ve read online that ultrasounds can’t tell if a lump is cancerous or not. I’m hoping that’s not true? As otherwise I’d need surgery I think.

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear that you are having investigations for a breast lump. 

    The radiologist who does the report are experienced at looking at lumps. An ultrasound cannot diagnose cancer but the radiologist can say if something looks benign or if it looks likely to be cancer and need further investigations. Because it is not easy taking a biopsy it does seem like a sensible precaution to repeat the ultrasound in three months. 

    Doctors are trained to look at lumps and I am sure if they saw something that looked suspicious then they would have wanted to do further investigations.

    Benign (not cancer lumps) are common. You may find it helpful to read Breast Cancer Now's information on these lumps here

    If you notice any changes in the breast lump before the three months are up then do get in touch with your GP.

    I hope this helps.

    All the Best,

    Catherine