Breast Biopsy and Medication.

Good Afternoon,

I wonder if you can offer me some advice. please.

Following a recent breast screening appointment, I have been called back due to a possible abnormality. The letter says that I may need to have a biopsy.

I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and I am receiving Tocilizumab via 4 weekly hospital infusions and Hydroxychloroquine tablets.  They are immuno-suppressant medications. The leaflet for Tocilizumab says that I have to come off Tocilizumab 4 weeks before an operation (due to the risk of possible infection).  I would like to ask you how 'invasive' a breast biopsy is, whether it is considered to be an operation, and whether it will be necessary to delay my appointment to give me time to come off Tocilizumab?

With many thanks for any advice you can offer.

Parents
  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    Without being involved in your care it is difficult for me to answer this question.

    I would contact either the breast clinic where you are due to have the biopsy or the clinic where you have the Tocilizumab infusion. If you have a Rheumatoid Consultant you could speak to their secretary and ask their advice. 

    I am sorry that I am not able to help more. 

    If you would like to contact us about anything else then you are more then welcome to do so.

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

    All the best,

    Catherine

Reply
  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    Without being involved in your care it is difficult for me to answer this question.

    I would contact either the breast clinic where you are due to have the biopsy or the clinic where you have the Tocilizumab infusion. If you have a Rheumatoid Consultant you could speak to their secretary and ask their advice. 

    I am sorry that I am not able to help more. 

    If you would like to contact us about anything else then you are more then welcome to do so.

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

    All the best,

    Catherine

Children