OT: what is the usual procedure if you find a lump in your breast?
I have been avoiding thinking about it but now that my appointment is getting closer I wish I know what to expect.
Thanks!
~Becky
I was referred to an oncologist, a surgeon, and a radiologist, all of whom worked at me- first a biopsy, then a lumpectomy, and then radiation therapy. I missed having to do chemotherapy because of a genetic screen that said I had a low chance of recurrence. Now I see each of them every 6 months, and get a mammogram also every six months.
It was my breast cancer that gave me the kick in the rear to get my health in order, hence WLS.
I hope your lump is benign! Breast ca is very treatable these days.
"What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls the butterfly." Richard Bach
"Support fosters your growth. If you are getting enough of the right support, you will experience a major transformation in yourself. You will discover a sense of empowerment and peace you have never before experienced. You will come to believe you can overcome your challenges and find some joy in this world." Katie Jay
"What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls the butterfly." Richard Bach
"Support fosters your growth. If you are getting enough of the right support, you will experience a major transformation in yourself. You will discover a sense of empowerment and peace you have never before experienced. You will come to believe you can overcome your challenges and find some joy in this world." Katie Jay
Most likely your PCP will do a manual exam. Then you will have a mammogram with an ultrasound. Sometimes they can tell if the mass is benign from the views on the mammogram or ultrasound. If it looks suspicious, thy will refer you to a breast surgeon who will perform the biopsy. There are several types of biopsies. The most common is a fine needle aspiration usually ultrasound guided. Then the cells will be examined. If there is any dysplasia or abnormal cells, your next step is surgery to remove the mass. That will also go pathology to be examined. Depending on the pathology report, this will determine what happens next.
Good luck!!
Blake
I wonder how long it takes to get an appointment with a breast surgeon here. I can't get an appointment with an endocrinologist until next March if you can believe that.
If I had some form of thyroid cancer I'd be SOL wouldn't I?
~Becky
(((((HUGS))))) I found this from Mayo Clinic. I hope everything turns out OK.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-lump/WO00031
They might also want to do a mammogram.
Try not to worry too much yet. I know lumps are really scary, but often they turn out not to be anything serious. It's good to always get them checked out right away, though.
Kelly
Please note: I AM NOT A DOCTOR. If you want medical advice, talk to your doctor. Whatever I post, there is probably some surgeon or other health care provider somewhere that disagrees with me. If you want to know what your surgeon thinks, then ask him or her. Check out my blog.
