How long is normal to wait for Biopsy results ???

Hi, this is the first time i've sent a post on here, but i've read more than a few and have already found comfort to know there's someone to talk to. I've had a mammogram and ultrasound which both say i have a 'lump' and two lymph nodes are enlarged. I had a biopsy last Tuesday, they said the results would be 2 - 3 days but it's now over a week ago !! I phoned yesterday but they said when they have the results they'll let me know. I have pains in my back and am scared it might have spread there - or that could be stress? - but I just don't know. I first went to my doctor 5 weeks ago and haven't told anyone, except my husband, as I want to be able to answer my mum and sister's questions in a positive way. But I just don't know.

Also does anyone know if they can tell if it's spread just by the biopsy? They did a 'fine' needle biopsy under my arm, aswell as the four 'larger needle' biopsy on my breast. Would appreciate any help out there, I'm trying to keep positive but it's taking so much time, and I can think of nothing else.

Thanks, June

Parents
  • Hi I had found a lump in my breast a month that ago I had a biopsy done a week today I'm still waiting on the results they told me a few weeks they think it's my glands that r swollen I had a scan done and a biopsy the lump is still there I am stressing out about all this so I know how u feel
  • Hi, I work in histology/pathology. The time scale for USC biopsy (urgent suspected cancer) is 5 days. For larger specimens it is 8 days.

    What can prolong these is if the consultant needs and further special stains or immuno work done to assist the identification. Where that is the case, the MDT (multi disciplinary team) meeting would know. Therefore the GP would be able to inform the patient of this. In Wales there is a system called Indigo which any GP can access. People think they can’t, and I spend ages letting them know this. Any queries let me know.

  • Hi I am new to this but need some advice, I had a Biopsy done 2 weeks ago 15/08/18 I havent had the results back yet so I phoned the clinic.  The Secretary said that they were having a meeting on Monday to discuss my case and would then contact me, Is this normal and is it something to worry about ?

  • This is normal procedure. I went a month between appointments when waiting for results if that helps. 

Reply Children