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Breast lump & GP response

Chives2023
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Hello,

I am 36, no family history of breast cancer and have round a lump. It’s in the upper inner quadrant of my breast. It feels firm, and I can only really feel 3 sides of it, which feel smooth and (I think) rounded. GP confirmed they could feel something and the only other direct comment about it they made was that it was moveable, which is a positive sign, because when we consider breast cancer it’s not normally. I said I was surprised because it didn’t feel moveable to me, and they said they would use the term moveable because it was moveable when they had their fingers either side of it. I was then given the usual spell about how lumps in breasts could be due to a number of things including cysts, glands/tissue etc but because a lump was found I would get an appointment where they would do tests, such as an ultrasound, and to try not to worry. GP was perfectly pleasant, and I didn’t pick up any concern in their tone.

Trying to keep busy while waiting for my 2ww appointment, but I’ve been thinking- was it right for the GP to say that? I’m aware that some cancerous lumps can be moveable at first so part of me is surprised they said that, the other part thinks if it was obvious that it was something sinister upon first inspection they wouldn’t have said that, so that’s a positive at least? I’m just trying not to cling on too much to any false hope! Not really sure what I’m asking for here, other than a place to vent my feelings xxx

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    Hi Chives,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    Doctors tend to be quite open about what they find in these circumstances. Your GP is correct that moveable, smooth edged lumps, are usually not cancerous, although there is no guarantee. You have been referred to the breast clinic, where they can do tests to ensure that this is correct. Only 20% of people who are referred to the breast clinic, will get a cancer diagnosis. Not all lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be benign cysts, fibroadenoma or due to hormonal changes.

    You are doing the right thing by keeping busy, as you wait. Also, avoid consulting "Dr Google". Much of the information there is aimed at the more spectacular and newsworthy cases. It won't apply to you, won't give you any answers and will only scare you further. You should get your appointment date through within 2 weeks from the date of referral.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on.  In the meantime, we are always here for you - it does help to vent.

    Keeping my fingers crossed for good news.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Jolamine

    Thank you Jolamine, appreciate you taking the time to respond, I will update as and when x

  • Offline in reply to Chives2023

      how did it go at the Brest clinick xx

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    Good evening, I wanted to report back. I ended up going private as 3 weeks after my initial GP consultation I still didn’t have an appointment date and I had some forthcoming travel for work, so didn’t want to be any further delayed. Fortunately I had some ‘rainy day’ money, I know that’s a luxury not many people have, so just want to acknowledge that straight up- I didn’t take my ability to go private for granted. Luckily I received good news- I had the triple assessment and the biopsy confirmed the consultant’s assessment that the lump was normal, albeit dense, tissue. I really hope this helps others who might be in a similar situation- from what I’d read I was aware that lumps could be cysts or fibroadenomas, but I didn’t see too much about plain old normal but dense breast tissue being a cause of a lump. I want to wish everyone the best in their journey, and especially those who responded to my initial post. Sent with love and support xx

  • Offline in reply to Chives2023

    Hi Chives,

    I am absolutely delighted to hear this and I can only imagine your relief.

    I hope that this leaves you ready to see the New Year off to a flying start, and to appreciate the fact that you fit an dwell and ready to go off on your travels for work.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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