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Large Lump on Jaw

Charlotte1982
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Hi!

I've recently found a large, sore, lump on my jaw. It appeared just after having a tooth infection so I assumed it was related. Maybe a cyst or something. It had been a few weeks and wasn't getting smaller so I went to the doctors. He said it didn't feel like a cyst because it was very solid and didn't move. It felt more like a large growth from my jaw.

He then started asking about family history and cancer (there isn't any in my family). He ordered a FBC blood test and a glycated haemoglobin blood test. He said this would show any red flags and if it came back normal he would feel assured it wasn't anything serious.

My question is, I wasn't aware FBC showed much in terms of cancer detection (assuming this is what he thinks the 'red flags' might be) and why would he also order glycated haemoglobin which (I thought) checked for diabetes?

I'm a little confused

Any help would be greatly appreciated 

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    It sounds like your GP has wanted to check your general health by doing these blood tests which can give them a lot of information. For example, a full blood count (FBC) shows if there is a possible infection or if you may have anaemia (low haemoglobin) which may need further investigation. If the glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) is abnormal this may be caused by diabetes. So although these tests cannot diagnose cancer they are important as they help the GP check your general health and to decide whether any abnormalities picked up will need further tests.

    Once you have your blood results, it might be worth having a chat with the GP again, to confirm why they had requested these particular blood tests, whether or not further tests are needed and if the blood tests are normal what they think the cause of the lump might be.

    I hope this helps. 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.

    Take care, all the best 

    Jemma

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