How long should I have to wait and what can I do?

Following the removal of my appendix which contained a low grade tumour 5 years ago I have had a 1, 3 and 5 year  CT scan (and colonoscopy).

The last CT scan on 19/7 showed 3 enlarged lymph nodes up to 17mm - ‘suspicious of disease recurrence’ according to the radiologist. I was told this on 4/9 at an appointment with the colorectal specialist nurse who immediately made appointments for a PET scan 13/9 and 2 colonoscopies - 16th and 26th of of September (both were unable to get around my colon)

I know my scans have been sent to a hospital which have a unit that  specialise in my problem? I have not heard anything since and am getting really stressed out. I have phoned my colorectal nurse 5 weeks running who has been very sweet however all I get is when the specialist hospital have looked at it they will refer back to my hospital where an MDT team will have to decide how to progress from here.

i know this is long winded however i am getting desperate and wonder whether you can give me your thoughts or any advice.

Thanks for reading

  •  

    Hi Pegasus 123 and thank you for your post.

    I'm sorry to hear that you are waiting for results, and I can appreciate that this is a difficult and stressful time for you.

    The time it takes to receive test results can vary between different NHS Trusts due to various factors. In most cases, it takes between two to three weeks to receive results, but some people have experienced longer waits. Shortages of staff who interpret results can contribute to delays.

    Has your hospital team inquired with the specialist unit about when the results might be ready? This way, you can have some idea of how much longer you may need to wait.

    If you have not already done this you might want to contact the hospital's Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) and voice your concerns. 

    Macmillan Cancer Support has information about cancer tests and waiting for results which you may find helpful to read.

    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.

    I hope you know more soon

    Kind regards

    Tina