When will I hear from haematology with an appointment?

Hi all,

So had a lump on neck for over 5 weeks now. Worrying but trying to stay positive. I have MS so saw ms nurse at my infusion who said yes there's a lump on your neck, please see your GP. Last Tuesday I saw locum GP who said needed bloods done and would refer me for a neck ultrasound just in case. Had bloods done Thursday last week. Monday just gone, I had phone call from doctors saying needed repeating so had done Tuesday at hospital who said you have some abnormal results see GP. So saw my main GP for results today who said they were abnormal and it could be an infection or lymphoma so would refer to haematology and should hear back this afternoon with a phone call on what would happen next. He did try to take more bloods but tried three times and couldn't so said oh they will take them when you see them. Didn't get a phone call today so should I worry or is it as I assume haematology department would be pretty busy and likely to get an appointment in the post opposed to a phone call inviting me to an appointment? Thought it was unlikely to get phone call today but been worrying as what GP said. What happens now - will I hear soon? Worried and as I have an infusion in two weeks time, if I had cancer this could be bad as infusion would be counterproductive due to toxicity etc. Panicking a bit. Do I see if get phone call tomorrow (Friday) or wait until next week to ring up hospital to see how it works? 

Thanks in advance for any answers.

  • Hello Handi

    I'm sorry to hear that you've been dealing with some health concerns recently. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about things. 

    It would be unusual for the hospital to ring and offer an appointment the same day as a referral is sent. From the posts we get here on the forum that's not how things tend to work even with the most urgent of referrals. 

    Given that you're due to have another infusion in a few weeks I'd certainly suggest giving your MS nurse a call next week and letting her know what's happening. She can then speak with the MS team and they can make a decision about your upcoming appointment. 

    You could also give the haematology department a call and check they've received your referral. If it's feasible for you to attend an appointment at short notice then you could ask if they have a cancellation list. This may possibly expedite your appointment. 

    We know that for many people this period of uncertainty can be very worrying. It's natural to feel anxious and worried about what the future may hold. It can often help to talk things through with someone. If you'd like to chat with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm. 

    I hope that you don't have to wait too long for some answers. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator