PET results

Hey, I don't normally post on these things. But I'm at a loss and a state of panic. 5 weeks ago mum was told she had stomach cancer, 3 weeks ago she was told it was actually secondary breast cancer that has returned after 12 years, 2 weeks ago she had a PET scan. Still heard nothing. Breast care nurses said they would be proactive in getting her sorted quickly. I have phoned them and left a message. The lymph oedema nurse who mum speaks to regularly said she was going to find out after mum expressed that she can't bring herself to go to any appointment because she's so scared. The nurse said she would get them to look and refer her as an "urgent referral" to the Macmillan team due to her mental state. This was a week ago. Still nothing. 
I'm just wondering, how long did other people wait for PET results? Is this normal. We have been kept in the dark the whole way along apart from being given big bad news blows at appointments then left to go home and stew. 
mum not sure why I'm writing this really. Just feeling so frustrated and scared for my mum. 

  • Hello Sophlou, 

    I am sorry to hear about the frustrating experience you've had and that you still haven't heard back after your mum had the PET scan. There is information on our website about PET scans which you can find here and which mentions that you should get your results within 1 to 2 weeks. It might be worth checking with the nurse again whether there have been any delays and how long it might take to get these PET results now that it is being dealt with as an 'urgent referral'. 

    I hope you manage to find out more soon. Should you need to talk to our cancer nurses about anything, you can reach them on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi, 

    My mum has recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer with a malignant pleural effusion and cancer of the kidneys. Mum had her PET scan last Tuesday and her results were discussed on Monday and we had our appointment Tuesday for mum's diagnosis. So all in all we have waited in total a week. Which I think is utterly incredible. This may not make you feel any better but I think by being persistent it'll do the world of good. I have been constantly on the phone since suspicions were raised a month ago. You don't have to be rude to anybody to get answers or actions. 

    I'm also wondering whether where in the country you are could have something to do with it. We are north Staffordshire based and our local hospital has gone pretty much back to normal since covid19. Perhaps your hospital hasn't and is still a little behind? (not an excuse! But a thought)

    Kind regards and hope you get your answers soon

    Laura x