Lump under arm - panic

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December - ER+, HER2 - Grade 2. Ki67 is 35%

Primary tumour is 22mm with 6mm satellite

My lymph nodes look normal on all the scans but they found a second malignant tumour in the tissue under my armpit of 14mm. They said it was a second tumour not a lymph node.

They just placed the bio markers in both tumours on Thursday as the operation is next week. I was having a feel and I swear I can now feel two lumps under my armpit. I’m really worried that one is a swollen lymph node and the cancer has travelled there. Both feel like hard nodules. I could only feel one before.

I’m also really worried that having a satellite mass and multifocal disease negatively affects my prognosis. I also noticed the Ki67 rating of 35 is high as well. I’m feeling very anxious and scared.

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It’s really normal to feel anxious, especially when things don’t feel right.

To try to reassure you: you’ve got a diagnosis, you have surgery scheduled, and your oncologist/surgeon will know much more about what you’re all dealing with after that. Even if it is in your lymph nodes (mine was) they will have a treatment plan based on what they find.

I know it’s really hard, but try to trust the system and ask lots of questions when you see your doctors. Take someone with you if you can, as you probably won’t remember everything that’s said. And I really hope it all goes smoothly with your surgery and treatment x

Hello ash543

Thank you for your post. It is understandable and normal as @averley2024 says that you are feeling anxious and scared about what you are going through especially as you have also felt another lump under your arm.

You should talk to your breast care nurse or treatment team about this second nodule before your surgery. Although it’s difficult for us to say what may be the reason for it, it may be related to your marker being inserted last week but it would be important that your treatment team are aware of it.

There are a number of factors that can affect your prognosis and size or being multi-focal and a Ki67 rating of 35 are only some of these, as well as your general health and fitness. After your surgery your treatment team will be able to talk about any further treatment that may be needed to reduce the risk of your cancer coming back (recurrence) in the future.

We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.

Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.

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Best wishes

Rosey

Breast Care Nurse

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