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GP said more likely to be cancer than a cyst

Randersred
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Hello ladies

I wonder if anyone else has had a similar experience with  their GP? I went to the GP this week with a lump in my armpit. I'm 49 and had a hysterectomy and ovaries removed in 2017 due to early cervical cancer /CIN3. Here is what has happened .. 

After my hysterectomy I was referred to the breast clinic as I had aches in my left breast. After a mammogram and US I was diagnosed with a large cyst and told if it caused me any bother I could have it drained. Fast forward to the last 6 months  the aching has got worse and a few days ago I found the lump. I have also noticed that the nippple in this breast has flattened and turned inwards.

My GP examined me and said it didn't feel like a cyst but was more likely to be intraductal carcinoma but would need to see a surgeon for further tests. You can imagine the horror I felt given my history.

What I wanted to know is are GP's able to distinguish between a cyst and a tumour ? This has frightened me to death especially the lump in my armpit. I'm thinking this could be my lymph glands. Feeling very stressed and worried. Xx

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    Hi Randersred

    A very warm welcome to our community, although I'm sorry for the reason that has brought you here. I am not a doctor, but, as far as I understand, no doctor, not even your consultant, can be certain whether a lesion is a cyst or a cancer, until they have the results of various tests.

    I am sure that you will remember from last time that you are likely to have a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy and you will know the definite answer about 1-2 weeks after these have been taken.

    Do please let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    I hope that all turns out well and that this is just another cyst

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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    Hi I know my C is different from yours but I've had problems with doctor as well I was having bad lower back pain could not see my own doctor, doc looked at my notes said straight away its my C he will get me in for a scan that was Feb last year still waiting. Also bad pain in legs another doctor got me to lay down move my legs asked couple of questions said its my C I saw my oncologist two weeks later asked him he said not C it's side effects of my medication, some doctors aren't very good,, try and relax a bit I know it's hard but it does help.,, best of luck.. 

    Billy 

  • Offline in reply to Jolamine

    Dear Billy and Jolamine

    Thanks so much for replying. I'm pretty sure as well that GP's can't really tell for certain until tests are done. If everything turns out to be OK I will be making a formal complaint!.

    Anyway  I wish I could put it out of my mind. It is consuming my thinking all day and the worry is disturbing my sleep. I think having been through a hysterectomy you tend to automatically think the worst  I am really glad that this forum is a source of support though - thank you. My appointment with the surgeon is on the 15th.Happy bank holiday to you both xx 

  • Offline in reply to Randersred

     

    Hi Randersred,

    The way you are feeling is perfectly normal. Our emotions tend to be all over the place, disturbing other everyday patterns, like eating and sleeping.

    You will find that this will settle once you know exactly what you are dealing with.

    I shall be thinking of you on 15th and hope that it all goes well. Please let us know how you get on.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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