Salivary gland nodule

Hi

I recently had a ultra sound that found a nodule in my salivary gland, I'm told this is very rare but the Doctor as refered me for an urgent biopsy. I called for an update today to be told that the consultant dropped from urgent to routine and the waiting time is 24 weeks . Understandable I'm very anxious and worried and can't imagine waiting that long for answers.

Could I get a private biopsy in Scotland and if so does anyone know how much this would cost roughly? 
I'm so scared as I'm a single mother with a 9 month old baby. 

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and I can understand how unsettling it must be to have a urgent appointment turned in to a routine one.

    The Consultant may well feel that the nodule that they had at first thought suspicious was not as serious as they first thought but of course I can't be sure. 

    Benign salivary glands are quite common and there may have been some features that made the doctor rethink

    We do have some information on our website about benign and cancerous salivary glands which you may find helpful to look at. Have a look here

    In the first instant it may be helpful trying to get in touch with the Consultant's secretary to see if you can get an explanation as to why the biopsy has now been down graded. Your GP may also have information on your recent appointment and maybe able to throw some light on the situation. You could also talk to your GP about going down the private route if that is what you would like to do.

    I am not sure about the cost but you can get an idea by looking at Private Health UK website where you can search for a hospital and a procedure. Have a look at their details here.

    If of course you decide to wait for 24 weeks when they decide to biopsy it, if you notice any changes before this then do get back to the doctors straight away.

    I do hope that you find out more soon. If you feel it would be helpful to chat through this with one of the nurses then do give us a ring. We are here Monday to Friday, 9am -5pm. Freephone 0808 800 4040.

    Best Wishes,

    Catherine

  • Hi Catherine 

    Thank you so much for your reply. I was such a mess with anxiety today that I called the secretary at ENT and have been advised that what I was told this morning about the biopsy being downgraded was incorrect , that I am still deemed as urgent. That in itself is still a great worry. I have been told my biopsy will be carried out in October, so hopefully I will get answers in the very near future.

     

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