Neck massif 14mm

Hi there! I’m new here, so I hope this is okay.

I have two neck lumps, one smaller one towards the back right, and a larger one on the left hand side, which I’ve had for coming up two months. I’ve been referred to a thyroid clinic, as my thyroid had started to play up at around the same time, and they wanted to rule that out.

I got a fast track referral for potential head and neck cancer, and was quickly sent a guided fine needle biopsy appointment. However, even before the scan, I was told that there would be no biopsy that day. Once he had scanned my thyroid and saw it was fine, he scanned my neck lumps, and measured them. The largest lymph node  was 14mm. 

I was then told that I would need a biopsy, but that he couldn’t do it there, and I’d get a letter through to tell me when. A week later I had a phone call from the hospital to say that I’d need a core biopsy, but it would probably be scheduled in 2-3 months, and she asked if I wanted to go ahead? As if I had a choice! Is that normal? It seems very casual? Should I follow it up? Thanks for any advice you have.

  • Hello Gladys and welcome to the forum.

    I'm glad to hear your scan went well although I'm sorry to hear about the long wait you have for your core biopsy.

    Unfortunately I can't say whether this is normal or not, but the wait for some tests and procedures can differ depending on what part of the country you're in, whether that department is still working through a backlog and if your referral is still urgent.

    Having said all that, there's no harm in following up with the hospital if you're concerned as they will be in the best position to answer your questions and put your mind at ease.

    Hopefully some of our members will share their experiences and advice with you soon but if you'd like to talk any of this through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very easy to talk to and will do all they can to help.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Thanks for your reply Steph!

    It's been almost another week since the phone call, so I think I'll give it one more week and then contact the hospital and see if there is an update as to when I might get a letter with an appointment.

    Thanks for your help, I've only just found this forum, but it really does seem invaluable, the help you all give. x