Hello,
I’m hoping for some advice following a recent GP appointment.
I’m a 35-year-old female currently undergoing investigations for various ongoing symptoms. I recently saw my GP to follow up on a swollen left supraclavicular lymph node that has been present for about a month.
During the appointment, I also mentioned an area of thickened, hard tissue below my left collarbone, in the upper outer chest/breast area. It measures approximately 7–8cm, feels uneven and immovable, and is painless. Occasionally, my whole breast feels tender, and the skin over the area has been quite itchy, although it looks normal. The area is more noticeable when I’m lying down.
The GP examined it briefly, compared both sides, and agreed it was noticeable. He did not examine me lying down or perform any further assessment. He said he could refer me for an ultrasound “if I want,” but wasn’t sure the referral would be accepted. He described it as likely “tense muscle due to stress,” said it would be unusual for anything sinister in that area, and advised that it would be a routine referral and not to chase it for at least four weeks.
I initially felt reassured, but now I feel uncertain about the plan.
I understand that NICE guidelines recommend a 2-week wait referral for anyone over 30 with an unexplained breast lump.
My questions are:
- Does what I’ve described qualify as a breast lump?
- Does the examination sound appropriate?
- Why might a referral for imaging not be accepted?
- Would you recommend seeking a second opinion or asking specifically for a 2WW referral?
Thank you very much for any advice!
