I'm new here

Found a lump three weeks ago. GP finally saw me on Friday, and has told me on a 2 week pathway. What now?? Can anyone tell me what they do on the first appointment.

Thanks

[biddenden_sue]

You've been referred to your local breast clinic, probably at a hospital. You should receive an appointment to attend there within 2 weeks of seeing your GP. They will do a mammogram, and an ultrasound scan, and they may take a biopsy from the lump.

Some clinics then process those tests on the day then see you again later that day. Other clinics have to send the tests away and you have to wait up to a week for the results. At that point, you'll find out if it is serious or not. I can't guess if it will be or not, but I can reassure you that if it is the dreaded big C, the treatment is amazing, and so many of us can testify. Please try not to panic. We're all here to talk to. Got my fingers crossed for you x

[Debs1962]

Hi,

As previous reply said you will see your local breast unit, after the mammogram and ultrasound they can sometimes give you some news either way, but statistically most lumps are not cancer, so try not to worry too much. X

[Hidden]

Hello there , as others have said the format is reasonably the same wherever you are in England , I saw my GP on the 11th Aug , they rang me with my clinic appt which was on the 15th Aug , and after my mammogram and ultrasound they took a biopsy of the lump- the ultrasound guy had a very good look in my armpit too so I already had an inkling they thought it was suspicious. I saw the consultant after that and was told they thought it was cancer and my return appt would be to discuss treatment. This was all before 9:30 on the Monday morning , I was a little shell shocked but went to work. I wish I had taken someone with me , so would suggest that to you.

Most cases referred aren't cancer , but if it is , you are now in the process and whilst it's easy for us all to say try not to worry we have all been where you are now and that really is the worst part , the waiting and not knowing. Breast cancer is generally very treatable - what I would also say is don't go on the internet if you have any questions , come on a forum like this or Macmillan or BreastCancerCare.org.uk , there is lots of help there.

Best wishes and hopefully you won't have to wait too long.

Jo x