Worried about biopsy and enlarged lymph nodes

Hi everyone, 

Last December I noticed a lump in my breast and was sent for a mammogram and ultrasound.  It was diagnosed as a cyst so was very relieved.  The cyst has grown so today I went back to the breast clinic where they said they would drain it.  During the ultrasound the radiographer noticed another lump and commented that my lymph nodes were also enlarged.   She said it wasn't another cyst and took a biopsy.   I now have to wait 2 weeks for the results.  

I am 48 and have two children.  I am terrified.   

I asked the radiographer if I should be worried but she was fairly noncommittal and just said it was best to get it checked out.  Would they normally say if they found something sinister?  It is the enlarged lymph nodes combined with the lump which are causing me the most concern.  

I know I just have to be patient but this is going to be a long two weeks.  If anyone has any words of reassurance that would be much appreciated.   

Many thanks....

  • Hi Jes48,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    I am sorry to hear that your cyst has grown again. This is not uncommon and cysts often need to be re-drained from time to time. I can understand that the discovery of another lump and enlarged lymph nodes have set alarm bells ringing. Not all lumps are cancerous. As you've discovered previously, many turn out to be benign fibroadenoma or cysts. Waiting for the results of a biopsy is one of the hardest parts of a cancer journey. Our over active imaginations don't help either, as they take us to all sorts of dark places. It is not really possible to say whether or not a lesion is sinister, until you get the results of the biopsy. The ultrasound can show the lesion and sometimes your care team can pick cancers out by the shape or particular characteristics. However, it is the biopsy which determines whether or not there is any cancer present.

    It is only natural to be terrified at this stage and it is understandable that you worry for your children. What ages are they? I was in a similar position, with 2 young teenage children when I was first diagnosed. I had already lost my mum to breast cancer and was absolutely terrified. I have had 2 bouts of breast cancer and 1 of pre-cancer, but I am now 15 years from diagnosis and I still lead a busy and fulfilling life. In that time I have also seen my children leave school, go to university, graduate, find gainful employment, marry and provide me with 2 beautiful granddaughters. It sounds as if you may have caught this lump early, which should make it easier to treat. Try to find any distractions you can to take your mind off the wait - not easy, I know! Also, steer clear of consulting "Dr Google". Much of the content is poorly researched, out of date and aimed at the more spectacular cases - this will not give you any answers and will only serve to scare you even further. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx