I was diagnosed with grade 2 stage 3 BC in my right breast and axillary lymph nodes about 4 weeks ago. There is a 6mm tumour and at least one cancerous node, maybe more. A CT scan and bone scan showed no evidence of mets but I have almost constant pain in my right shoulder and both elbows. The surgeon said that the bone scan was ok and that the pain in my shoulder is arthritis but how can they tell the difference? I saw my bone scans and there were hot spots in my pelvis, sternum, shoulder and both knees. How do they know that these are innocuous or arthritic and not mets?
Hi there
this is always aworrying and confusing time.
how can they tell - firstly by experience. these scans are looked at by a consultant radiologist for reporting. they have looked at hundreds maybe thousand and get to know the patterns different bone disease forms on a scan - example most mets start in the body of the bone were the bone cells are active, arthritis is on the surface of the bone around the articulating surfaces. They have confirmed this with the CT scan which shows fine detail including cartilage and they are able to get a better view of location and form the damage takes.
I have bone mets in my spine by the way - they were picked up several years after my primary when I complained of back pain at a routine check up. They do look very different from the degenrative disc disease and OA I have as well. I know it is difficult but have faith that the people looking after you are good at their jobs. They will keep and eye on things.
I hope all your treatment for your primary diagnosis goes well and you stay clear of disease and happy.
All the best Jacqui
Hi swanie, I have just had a combined pet/ct scan. My results showed a lot of arthritis. However, I also had uptake in my right hip which they are not able to identify. It might be a bone met and I have to have a repeat scan or maybe a different type, they haven’t decided yet. This would suggest exactly what jacqui said - that you can tell the difference. Obviously there must also be instances where things aren’t clear as in my scan.
I hope your treatment goes well. With best wishes.
Pauline x
Sorry Swanie, I’m confused with all the names! I was meaning to reply to pie314 but mentioned jacquie in the post which is obviously you! Anyway, I found your post really useful, thanks.
X
These posts have helpedme. I’ve just had bone scan result and irs arthritis in hips - delighted but wary. I’m putting my trust in my oncologist who has been great.