Results via letter?

Hey all,

New here but wanted to get opinions.

For the last 7 years, I have had vulval problems. From itchy skin to abscesses. It has now spread to the perineum and anus. The itchiness and soreness being the worst problem. I've been back and forth to the GPs. One GP around 4 years ago told me I had lichen sclerosis and prescribed steroid cream. This helped initially but since then when I've been back I've had to get more potent creams as the one before pretty much stopped working.

Being desperate last year, the GP then said he didn't think it was Lichen Sclerosis and referred me to Gynae.

I had my initial apt but it wasn't airing a flare up so he advised to contact him and make an apt during a flare up. Each time I couldn't get in with him.

At the start of April this year, he booked me an apt in advance and luckily on the day I was in the midst of a flare up. He took 3 punch biopsies as he could see an ulcerated area and advised I'd get the results via letter. 
I've spoken to his secretary who advised the results are back and she has a letter to dictate and I should get it in the next few days.

I'm thinking this must be good news or it'd be a phone call or apt.

Have people ever received bad results via letter?

  • Hello Buggy1234

    I'm sorry to hear about the ongoing health problems you've been living with. I know we've had a number of women post here on the forum previously who have had lichen sclerosis and how it impacts their daily quality of life. 

    I'm glad to hear that you've finally been able to see the specialist during a flare-up and hopefully the biopsy results that you're waiting on will bring a definitive diagnosis and the team will be able to help improve things for you. 

    Prior to Covid-19, it was unusual for people to get a cancer diagnosis by telephone or letter but unfortunately over the past two years, we know things have changed and it's not unheard of for patients to get a diagnosis in this way. However, try to remain positive until you know any differently. Worrying won't change the results but it will likely leave you feeling more anxious. 

    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'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice, information, and support that they can. 

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

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator