Is this bad news?

Hi, 

my mum is currently recovering from breast cancer, but cancer has now been found in her neck. However the doctors have said that the visible lump is not the primary source and they can not find it, is this a good thing or does it mean that the cancer in the neck is serious and could be terminal? Any information would be great as doctors aren't really answering any questions. 

Thanks in advance 

  • Hi Tori

    Sorry to hear about your mom.

    Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) is an indication of metastasis (cancer that spreads to other parts of the body). Basically the lump on the neck isnt the original tumor and the doctors are still uncertain where the original tumor is.

    If that lump is totally unrelated to your moms earlier case of breast cancer then it could mean that your mother is suffering from another completely different type of malignancy.