Preliminary biopsy results show abnormal cells

Have I got breast cancer? Appointments and waiting for test results
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Hi all,

I had a mammogram which did not show anything due to dense breast tissue. The ultrasound showed two masses (7mm and 6mm). The 3D mammogram did not show anything. The lymph node in the armpit apparently did not look suspicious but the report does mention a thickened cortex of 3mm (which I understand is just at the boarder of indicating cancer has spread to the lymph nodes).

Biopsies were taken and the preliminary result did not show cancer cells but abnormal cells. The final results will be given to me next week. It really sounds like I have cancer and it has already spread to at least one lymph node.

What shall I expect? Has anyone been in this positioln?

Thanks a lot and kind regards,
EmmaNow

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Hi @emmanow :slight_smile:
Welcome to the forum, although sorry you have to be here - for the reasons we all are too. If you have time to read through topics, you’ll notice that the worst part really is the waiting game where you’re not sure what’s happening - it’s scary! Have you been able to let your family or friends know what’s happening? Sometimes a good cry with a loved one can really help.

Hoping for positive news for you, but if it’s the “worst case” scenario then we’re all here for you :sparkling_heart:

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Thanks for your response. I have let my friends know but thinking of telling my mum makes me sick…

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Of course, it’s really hard to let people know about something like this, especially when you’re still trying to get your head around it and you’re not 100% certain what your results will be. I hope you’re finding support with your friends? Even though you don’t have your results yet, you may find it helpful speaking to one of the nurses, they can talk through everything with you and they’re so lovely ( Helpline: 0808 800 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 9am-1pm). They’re closed tomorrow for Good Friday, but they’re open again on Saturday.

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Try not to panic yet, all you have to go off is abnormal cells, that could mean anything. You’ve described your worst case scenario from it, but your results could end up better than you think. You are at the first horrible waiting stage, there are other ones involving results from scans or surgery ( pathology often takes longer than biopsy results and is excruciating). Pursuing distractions works better while you wait, rather than seeking out the worst possible outcomes. Exercise, seeing friends, family, whatever gets you by as the tine ticks on.