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Small hard lump in armpit - been referred for urgent breast cancer screening. Looking for reassurance and advice

Ruperta
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Hi

I’ve come on here as was referred to the urgent breast cancer screening program today and it has shaken me up a bit.  There’s the part of me that says this is normal procedure and it’s being looked at but the other part of me is anxious.

I had a mammogram end March this year which was all clear but have had a pea sized hard immovable lump under my left armpit for a few weeks.  It has actually reduced in size a bit so I wasn’t unduly worried when I saw the doctor today.  Now that she’s referred me to the urgent screening I’m feeling concerned.

I think I just need a bit of reassurance that it’s unlikely to be breast cancer due to clear mammogram end March.  Or could it be lymphoma or leukaemia.  I’ve done too much googling - sorry.  Would welcome any advice.  Thanks 

  • Hello Ruperta

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been referred to the breast clinic after finding a lump in your armpit. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious ahead of your appointment. 

    It might help to keep in mind that the large majority of people who are seen by breast specialists are not diagnosed with cancer. There could be any number of reasons for this lump that's been felt, but the important thing is to get it checked, so hopefully you won't have to wait too long for your appointment. 

    In the meantime, if it would help to talk things through with one of our nurses, then you're welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Do keep in touch Ruperta and let us know how you get on. We're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline

    Hi Ruperta,

    I am sorry to hear about your anxiety following your referral to the breast clinic. Nearly all referrals are sent under the 'urgent' pathway. This is nothing to worry about and is as you said, 'normal procedure'. It is impossible to predict what the outcome will be, as this will depend on the results of any tests carried out on the day. It is good to hear that you had a mammogram in March, so if this is anything untoward, you will have caught it early.

    As our moderator, Jenn, has said not all lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be benign. In fact only 20% of those who attend the breast clinic will get a cancer diagnosis. The first thing I would advise you to do is to stop Googling. Much of the information is poorly researched, out of date and only aimed at the more spectacular cases, which will only increase your anxiety.

    I do hope that your appointment comes through quickly and that all will turn out well. Please keep in contact and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Jolamine

    Thank you both for coming back to me.  I have calmed down a bit since the initial shock and am pleased I won’t need to wait long for the check up.   It’s so true that Google is not good to spend too much time pouring over.   Once I get my results I will let you know.  Thanks again .  

  • Offline

    Good Luck at your appointment Ruperta. I’m going through the same thing and have a breast Ultrasound in a little over a week. I have two lumps under my armpit on the left side. When I went into the doctor I thought there was just one but I felt another one today that is more sensitive. Hopefully they will all come back benign. Waiting is hard…

  • Offline in reply to Elizabeth30

    Thinking of you too.   It’s so hard - the waiting and uncertainty.   I don’t think we’re designed for it!  I’m still waiting for my appointment date but it will be soon.  Fingers crossed for you next week.  Xx

  • Offline in reply to Elizabeth30

    Hi Elizabeth,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    I am sorry to hear that you are in this unenvious position too. I sincerely hope that your ultrasound goes well and that nothing untoward is found.

    Please keep in touch and let us know the outcome. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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