Awaiting biopsy results for breast lump.

Hello,

I am a 34 year old who went to the GP with a lump in my left breast back in December. I was prescribed antibiotics as the GP thought it may be an infection, but put me on the 2WW for the breast clinic anyway as when she done the exam said I have “lumpy breasts” but wasn’t quite “sure what she was feeling.” I completed the course and felt that my pain had subsided and I didn’t think the lump felt as big.

Fast forward and i’ve seen the breast clinic who examined me, sent me for an ultrasound and I ended up having biopsies. The nurse was sure it is a fibroadenoma in the left, however the doctor conducting my ultrasound said she had extreme concern of a 4-5cm mass on my right breast which was “deep within my chest wall.” Of course I tried not to panic but when she was scanning me her face kind of said it all. 

After my biopsies, I returned to see the nurse so I could get an appointment for my results. She mentioned it is likely to be a fibroadenoma or a phyllodes tumour. Obviously I went straight into shock when I heard the word tumour even though I know it can be benign or malignant. So of course me being stupid started to google phyllodes tumour as it’s not something I have ever heard of.

I guess what i’m asking is has anyone been told a mass has been deep within the chest wall? Have you been diagnosed with a phyllodes tumour as I think they are rare? What has been your outcome? I am booked for a telephone call for results but will they give me bad news over the phone? My head is just all over the place and i’m making myself ill with it all. 

P. 

  • Hi P and welcome to the forum.

    I know what the nurse told you hasn't helped but if you can, try to put that to one side for now. Much easier said than done I know, but I hope this guide we have on how to cope with waiting for news and the advice the NHS have on managing anxiety will help to calm your mind whilst you wait.

    I hope this information I've found about phyllodes tumours will be useful as well but if you would like to talk things through with someone, you can do just that with one of our cancer nurses. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they will do all they can to support you and address your queries and concerns. 

    Our members know just how stressful situations like this can be, so you are not alone, and hopefully some of them will be along soon to share their experiences and advice.

    Do let us know how your appointment goes P. We'll be thinking of you and will have our fingers crossed that the mass is benign.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator