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Waiting for breast biopsy results

July2nd
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Hi, I went for routine mammogram screening 19th June (no symptoms). A week later I got a letter with an appointment at hospital for further tests within the next few days. At that appointment, I was told something had shown up that wasn't there at my last screening, 3 years ago.  Whatever it is was showing also on the 3D mammogram.  The nurse said I needed an ultrasound which should give more info, but that didn't show anything.  Also the nurse could feel no lumps or see anything odd.  I was told that I needed a biopsy as its possible that I may have cancer.  Had the biopsy the same day and see a consultant for the results 17th July.  I dont know why they told me it may be cancer - why didn't they wait until they know the results?  And why do I need a consultant appointment - surely that wouldn't be needed if everything's ok?  Just a bit confused and obviously worried.  Thank you x

  • Hi July2nd,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. It's good to hear you haven't had long to wait between these appointments, although I appreciate the uncertainty is difficult.

    It's normal to speak to a consultant either way, as they will be able to talk everything through.

    As for why they told you what they were doing, they perhaps just wanted to explain things to you - but I appreciate this will also have added to the worry.

    Try to keep busy and focused on other things as much as possible while you wait, to help keep your mind off any worries. I know this can be easier said than done.

    And I hope that the forum can be helpful for you.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Ben

    Exactly the same thing happened to me this week  

    I’ve got to return for results on Weds 23rd July, but I’ve already been told that even if first core biopsies are negative, I will need a further biopsy. 

  • Offline in reply to Pennyjt

    Hi, I got my results yesterday and I have Stage 1 cancer.  I have my pre op on 23rd July and surgery to remove the tumour and lymph nodes on 11th Aug.  So good news really, it's small, caught early and Stage 1.  I feel much better now I know and have a plan of action.  I'll have radiotherapy and hormone therspy afterwards, not sure about chemo until after surgery.  Hope you get on ok when you go back on 23rd - waiting is the worst part definitely.

  • Offline in reply to July2nd

      I’m sorry to hear that it was a positive result, but as you say, a plan is definitely better than the wait & Stage 1 is the best you can hope for.


    Thank goodness for screening. 

    Did your lymph nodes appear clear on Ultrasound & are they sampling them anyway? 

    Hope your surgery goes well on the 11th

  • Offline in reply to Pennyjt

    Lymph nodes were clear on the ultrasound, but that didn't show the tumour either, so they want to be certain.  Everyone at the hospital was amazing, very kind and understanding.  They got on with it so quickly that admissions for the pre op appointment rang me while I was still in the consultation!

  • Offline in reply to July2nd

    That is exactly the same situation as me! 

    Radiologist saw something on mammo & graded it M4. 


    When she did the Ultrasound, the Radiologist couldn’t find what she’d seen on mammograms. 


    Had 4x stereotactic core biopsies. 

  • Offline in reply to July2nd

    My lymph nodes were also clear on US, so I’m interested to hear they will be sampling them at your surgery 

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