Back from breast clinic & confused & scared

Hi,

I was referred to the breast clinic after finding a lump and some soreness. Absolutely convinced that it was nothing. Ended up having the full works, mammogram, scan and biopsy in both breasts, as they had concerns for the non lump breast.

At the end of all this, I was told that the non lump breast has been graded as a 3, so they believe it to be benign. The breast with the lump in they've graded as a 4 and said this score means a high chance of cancer.

I was also told if the biopsy comes back benign, I may have to do another one.

Does anyone know why that might be?

Also, and I know I'm probably asking how long is a piece of string question, does the grade 4 mean that it probably is cancer?

All I know is that it's measured at 9mms. When I asked the doctor doing the biopsy and the scans what her thoughts were, she really didn't want to say and said they would speak with me before I left the clinic. 

I don't see the consultant for 2 weeks now to get the results.

Also, if it is cancer can you give me an idea of what happens next?

Sorry for all the questions, it was just a lot to take in when I was absolutely convinced I'd be in and out within 30 minutes, thinking it was a cyst. I was so convinced I wouldn't let my husband come to the appointment because I didn't want to waste his time. He's so good though, he came straight home to take care of me. Thanks for reading my garbled nonsense.

  • Hi,

    I wish I had some advice as I'm in a similar situation and have my appointment today. I just know it's going to be bad news so I'm trying to deal with that in advance.

    when I finally saw my gp after noticing that the size and shape of one of my boobs has changed a bit, I didn't expect her to find two lumps but she did and I was in total shock so I know that feeling.

    I went private to get a faster appointment as the waiting is just awful!

    I hope your results show it's nothing, all the best.

  • Hello Bubbabinks, 

    Thanks so much for getting in touch, it does sound like you have had a lot to take in.

    The Breast clinic use a scoring system for the tests that they do. This is so the team involved in your care all know what the findings from your investigations are telling them.

    A score of 3 is probably benign.

    A score of 4 means the findings are suspicious, so they may show signs of cancer.  

    These scores help your team decide whether further tests or treatments are needed. A score of 3, 4 or 5 normally mean you need more tests.  I'm not sure why they said you might need more biopsies, but sometimes a biopsy result comes back uncertain so this might be why they mentioned having more just in case they are needed.  It can feel like a long time to wait to see your consultant and find out results.  Planning things to distract you while you wait can be helpful.

    You asked about what might happen after a cancer diagnosis.  There is some information below about what to expect from Breast Cancer Now, a website that supports people living with breast cancer, and their friends and family.

    What to expect after a diagnosis

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  Feel free to call if you want to talk anything over, our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Wishing you the best, 

    Rachel