Enlarged lymph nodes in pelvis

A recent ct scan has shown enlarged lymph nodes in my pelvis. It was referred to a gynaecology MDT meeting because I had a borderline ovarian tumour seven years ago.

I have received a letter saying ' some indeterminately sized lymph nodes were found on the right pelvic side wall. They were not above the size that would normally be a concern for a malignant process, so no further action is required at this stage'.

What do you think they mean by indeterminately sized? They say it would be 'prudent' to do a repeat scan in four months. Is this 'wait and see' the usual practice? I'm worried that they're not going to investigate it straightaway and that something might develop while I'm waiting for the next scan.

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am not a pathologist and involved in your care so it is hard to advise you about your situation. As it says in the report that some of the lymph nodes are inderterminately sized which means that they are difficult to assess but as they appear smaller then they would be if they were malignant (cancerous) they say that they are not too concerned.

    The decision to repeat a scan is often done, and it does enable the radiographer to compare the two images. If the doctors had been concerned at this stage they would have done a biopsy. The decision to repeat the scan would have been made by all the doctors at the MDT not just an individual doctor.

    If it does continue to cause you concern then do perhaps chat this through with your GP. The hospital will have written to them explaining what they were doing.

    I hope this helps but if you would like to chat to one of the helpline nurses then you are welcome to give us a ring.

    We are here from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and our Freephone number is 0808 800 4040.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Hi Catherine,

    Thank you for your response. I think I will speak to my GP as you have suggested. Thanks again.