Should I be upset with results

Hello.

I'm newly diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma.

I went private and pushed the consulant to test. On our first consultation he said it didn't look suspicious. 

I had a biopsy and he told me to come back 8 weeks later to see if it's healed OK. It was only then he logged in and looked at my results as I sat there and said it was BCC. 

My feelings are a bit all over but I'm upset it hadn't been picked up weeks ago, when surely the results came back. 

Is this normal for biopsies and private hospitals (or even NHS)? Does no one check and 8 weeks is an OK time frame to be told? 

Thank you for reading. 

  • Hello BeepBeep

    I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma. It's understandable you're feeling a whole range of different emotions right now. 

    We have some information about BCC on our website which will hopefully offer you some reassurance. We know that many people across the UK are experiencing delays in receiving skin biopsy results due to a variety of reasons. Whilst 8 weeks can feel like an eternity, try not to worry that this delay will impact the outcome for you. 

    What information did the specialist give you regarding any follow-up? If you don't feel happy with the information that you were given then do speak with your GP. It may be that based on your results you don't need any additional clinical follow up but of course, it's important to be aware of any future changes in your skin. You can read more about follow-up appointments here

    If you'd like to chat things through with one of our nurses I'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice, information, and reassurance they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator