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Biopsy of armpit lump

GraceDJ
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Hi,

I've had an appointment today with the breast clinic concerning three lumps in my left armpit which I first noticed around 4 weeks ago. My GP thought they were normal lymp nodes and wanted to wait to see if they settled- unfortunately it appears they haven't.
 

Consultant wasn't concerned by the two smaller ones but said thr third was slightly more concerning due to its shape and size. She said that it is an enlarged lymp node. 
 

I had my covid booster 7 weeks ago and she did mention that there has been an increase in women with armpit lumps after having the vaccine. she said she wasn't overtly worried but couldn't rule out for sure it not being anything more serious.

I suffer with anxiety and keep going over the appointment. I met with a MacMillian nurse at the end of the appointment to give me dressings. I wondered if this was a way of preparing me for what's coming next week. I have two young children. Im not sure how im going to survive 10 days of waiting for my results. I'm absolutely terrified. 

just wondering if anyone has experience anything similar? 
 

  • Hello GraceDJ

    I'm sorry to hear that you recently found a lump and that during your appointment at the breast clinic the Consultant carried out a biopsy. It's perfectly natural that you're feeling anxious about the results. 

    Many women who have a biopsy will meet the nurse specialist during their appointment. At some hospitals, they are a Macmillan nurse and at other hospitals, they aren't. Given that you had a biopsy it sounds as if it's a normal part of the process for her to chat with you and give you some dressings. 

    Try to keep in mind that the Consultant deals with these kinds of lumps on a daily basis. If they said they weren't overly worried then hold on to that positive note. The large majority of women who attend breast clinic do not go on to be diagnosed with cancer so the odds are in your favour. 

    Hefopully you won't have to wait too long for the biopsy results. Did they give you a follow-up clinic appointment?

    We know that it can help to chat things through with someone and I'd really encourage you to give our nurses a call. I'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice, support, and reassurance that they can ahead of your next appointment. If you'd like to speak with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Thank you so much for taking the time to reply to me.

    I will definitely take your advice and give one the nurses a call tomorrow. 
     

    Many thanks, 

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