Lump in arm - long wait time concern

I had a lump appear in my arm back in March that at first I thought was a cyst but it began to grow. I contacted the GP and was referred for an ultrasound (Early April) but told it was likely a cyst.

Ultrasound was yesterday (late July) and the tech stated that it was not a cyst and had blood vessels going into it which he said is referred to as “sinister”. He said it would need to be excised and biposied to determine the cause but not to worry.

My GP have today informed me that they have referred me to orthopaedics and my appointment is for February next year. I have called the GP to say I want to speak with someone about the ultrasound results because I am worried and have been given an appointment with them in 2 weeks time.

Am I worrying for nothing? Google is obviously not my friend when trying to research any information but I can’t imagine waiting another 7 months for a consultation and then discovering it’s something that should have been treated. 

Surely it wouldn’t be left this long if they were concerned it was cancerous? 

  • Hello there and thanks for posting

    Unfortunately no one here can say if this lump is something that needs to be looked at sooner or later so it is good to hear you have arranged an appointment with a GP to discuss further.

    They are in the best position to give you a better understanding of the ultrasound report and what referral pathway you have been placed on. I assume because it is a long way off this isn't being considered a suspected cancer otherwise you would be fast tracked.

    Do talk this through at your appointment and hopefully they can put your mind at ease. If they think the referral needs to be upgraded they can do this or try and refer you to a different hospital that may have a shorter wait time. Do also bear in mind if the lump were to change at any time or your symptoms changed this may also change the time you ought to bee seen.

    Do get back in touch if needed. Our number is 0808 800 4040 if you prefer to call. We are here weekdays 9-5.

    Best wishes

    Naomi

  • Thank you for your reply.

    I pushed further as I still couldn’t shake the feeling that this was wrong and got an appointment with the GP sooner.

    Unfortunately there was actually a clerical error with handling my results and the initial 7 month referral was actually incorrect.

    I am now being fast tracked for a suspected sarcoma.