Clear diagnostic mammogram, dense breast tissue, but refused ultrasound as breast nurse couldn't feel the lump that I and GP could feel.

I was referred to urgent breast clinic the other month with new small lump in left breast. Lump is small but could be felt by myself, gp and partner.

At the breast clinic I was given mammogram which showed no evidence of malignancy but that I had dense breast tissue ( I am 43).

I was told if they could feel the lump I would have been given ultrasound plus or minus a biopsy as mammogram can miss certain cancers in those with dense breast tissue. However as the breast nurse could not feel my lump I was told I wouldn't not be given further tests and to just check the lump that I can feel and go back to gp if it changes and informed that the likelihood of it being a  cancer missed on mammogram was unlikely.

I left feeling not fully reassured and with anxiety about still having a lump of unknown nature.

I have decided to have a bilateral breast ultrasound done privately In a few weeks to help alleviate my anxieties. 

If the private ultrasound was to show any irregularities or anything that warranted further review or investigation, could I take the private U/s results back to gp and be asked to be referred back to NHS breast clinic for further review ?

I have not spoken to gp since I was discharged from breast clinic as I decided I would just go back if the private ultrasound showed anything. If the u/s doesn't show anything then I will have the reassurance that the breast clinic failed to provide me with.

  • Hello Samjoe and welcome to Cancer Chat,

    I'm sorry to hear that you didn't feel reassured after your appointment at the clinic, but I hope the upcoming ultrasound will be able to relieve any anxieties you have. We have some information around the breast ultrasound scans on our website, which can help you to feel more prepared. Your private doctor will be the best person to give you an idea of how you can be referred back to your NHS clinic. 

    I hope the private appointment goes ok and that you get the reassurance you need.

    Best wishes,

    Moderator Anastasia

    • Do whatever will bring you peace of mind.
    • Do your own research online on diagnostic imaging for breast cancer.
    • Yes, you can take any results and bring them back to the GP. Ask for the exam & the reporting of the U/S.(Ensure you have a copy cause you can’t trust anyone.)
    • I had a CT scan abroad that I gave my medical team and GP 

    do not forget that clinical staff are human beings with faults;some lack compassion,some lack empathy, some lack social skills and some are doing this many years and have this distance to protect themselves.

    not saying it’s right- just saying it happens

    best of luck