Another lump but only to observe?

HI,

I had a MRI few weeks ago before my surgery. They found a lump on the other side, which wasn't picked up by ultrasound or mammogram. They said they will leave it for 6 months to see if any changes. That worries me as I have cancer on my left side already, and they decided to leave the lump on my right side for now? I am not so sure about it, shall I push for a biopsy? I have a few family members who have breast cancer as well, shall I ask for a genetic test? 

Any advice is welcome.

Thanks. 

  • Hello Sunflowers22 and thanks for your post,

    It is difficult without being involved in your care to know more about your situation and why they want you to wait for 6 months. I would discuss this with your Breast Care Nurse and let them know about your concerns. Your BCN may have been there when the discussions were taking place between your doctors.

    You could ask about a genetic test. It may be helpful to write down the members of your family that have been affected by breast cancer and the ages of when they were diagnosed.

    We have some information of causes and cancer risks which you might find helpful to read.

    You will see that a family history can increase the risk of breast cancer but not always by very much. This can depend on how close the affected relatives were and how young they were when they developed the cancer. Breast cancer is common anyway, 1 in 8 women develop breast cancer over their lifetime, but mostly at an older age (above 50). 

    I hope that you know more soon. Every patient is treated very individually and I am sure your case will have been discussed in some detail.

    Do give the nurses a ring on the helpline if you would like to talk things through.

    the number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine