What’s the process

Hi

So I started having clear liquid coming from my left nipple, I went to the gp who checked for lumps (none found) and then I was sent to have blood tests…. The result of that was raised prolactin and I was referred to the breast clinic… not really sure what to expect, I went to the appointment 9 days ago, checked for lumps again, nothing found, they did a swab of the liquid, and I had a mammogram… I then went to see another dr, who did a scan and then said he needed to do a couple of biopsies… I had all this done and told I would need to come back to clinic for the results in 7-10 days but to get dressed and wait for the other  dr, I didn’t really get much info from him but told “they meet” on Thursdays to discuss and I would then find out what’s happening… but he was vague as to whether this would be an appointment, letter, telephone call, or what…. I’m now left just waiting and wondering what the process is and what happens?? It is, of course on my mind, but I am being very positive and not panicking… but what happens next??

  • Hi, and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and I can understand how unsettling this must be for you.

    Every suspected breast cancer is discussed in a formal meeting (called a Multidisciplinary Team Meeting) where all the different tests are reviewed.  The doctor may have been vague because he was waiting to discuss your case with the other doctors. Often the doctors don't know what the next steps are until the doctors all meet and review your results. 

    Based on these results you will either be contacted for a further appointment or they may have ruled out a cancer diagnosis. They can't really give you that appointment until they know more.

    Try and keep yourself busy and your mind on other things if you possibly can.

    If at any stage you want to ring and discuss any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to do so.

    Our helpline number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Thank you for your reply… is it normally to wait longer than 7 days for results? Does this indicate anything? Sorry for the questions

  • Hello, and thanks for posting again,

    it does take at least a week or two to get the biopsy results back. A  lot will depend on the pathologist's workload so I don't think you can read anything into this.

    Do ring us if you want to talk this through.

    Our helpline number is Freephone 0808 800 4040

    All the best,

    Catherine