Lung cancer biopsy result delays

Hi, my mum has been diagnosed with Stage 3c lung cancer but she's had no treatment as they are waiting for biopsy results. The biopsy was at the end of January but still no results. 

Is this length of wait unusual? Its frustrating as the delay will only be allowing the cancer to grow.

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your mum. 

    I can understand that any wait for tests can be very unsettling but it is important that all the different tests are performed as this will help the doctors decide the best treatment for your mum.

    There are so many tests that are now done on lung tissue including looking at mutations (changes in the cells) which can make a difference in how someone may be treated.

    Once all the tests are done then usually all new cancer cases are discussed in a formal meeting with all the doctors and present who have been involved in helping diagnose your mum. These meetings only meet once a week.

    There is some information on our website about the different tests that are being done which you can see here

    If your mum has a lung nurse then do talk to them. Pals (Patient Advice and liaison Service) may be able to look in to this for you if you continue to wait to find out more. Have a look at their details  here

    I do hope that you hear more soon. If you or your mum would like to talk through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to give us a ring.

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

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Just read your reply to Hwin and it's definitely hard waiting for test results. I am due to have a lung biopsy soon and your full and helpful reply to Hwin will be beneficial to me too, no doubt.