Histology Results

I had my operation on 21 June to remove a tumour after being diagnosed with breast cancer for a second time.  Been waiting for an appointment since then to get the histology results which  turned up by post this afternoon.  I don't understand what the letter is saying as it is in medical speak and upset that haven't had the opportunity to discuss them with anyone.  I know I have been through this before but it was sometime ago and I am now widowed so have lost my support.   Would welcome advice on trying to determine whether the histology results are good news or bad news.  The last time I had contact with the hospital was when the surgeon checked my wound on 27 June.  

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    Your GP should have also received a copy of your results by now. You could schedule a phone call or face to face appointment with them, to ask about this.

    The other point of contact that might be useful is your hospital breast care nurse, so you could ring them. We can explain some basic cancer terminology, but it is usually better to speak with someone who has full access to your NHS medical records and your particular case, as they are able to then give you a fuller explanation, and place things in context for you. 

    The charity Breast Cancer Now has a useful booklet explaining the basics of breast pathology results,

    breastcancernow.org/.../understanding-your-pathology-results-bcc161

    breastcancernow.org/.../your-pathology-results

    I hope that you are able to find out more soon, 

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda