Private ultrasound results advice

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1

I had a cyst aspirated in Feb. It recurred straight away and was aspirated again in March. It’s a simple cyst. Clear mammogram. Found a letter on my NHS app that says I have fibrocystic breast disease. A few weeks later I found a referral letter on my NHS app saying that I’ve been referred to the genetic testing centre. In the meantime for more understanding for me, I paid for a private ultrasound.

The result from the private ultrasound was that I have heterogeneous dense breasts and lots of little cysts in both breasts. I sent this report to the GP, this was in mid April, I have heard nothing at all from the GP surgery. I rang the surgery to make sure they had it and the receptionist said they had and a GP would call me if they felt it necessary. I have still heard nothing from the GP surgery. I’m feeling a bit unsure as have had no contact from the GP about the ultrasound or the referral I found on the NHS app to the genetics clinic. I can’t see the private ultrasound anywhere on the app.

Where do I go from here?

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Hi myboobsmybusiness,

Thanks for posting.

It’s understandable you’re feeling a bit unsure following the investigations you had for breast cysts and a subsequent referral to the genetic testing centre.

You say the letter you found on your NHS app states you have fibrocystic breast disease. This is a benign (non cancer) condition caused by a collection of fibrous tissue in an area of the breast. These changes don’t increase your risk of breast cancer so it’s difficult to say why you’ve been referred for genetic testing. Most breast cancers aren’t inherited and only a small number of people will be at greater risk of developing breast cancer because they have a significant family history. If you’re concerned that your family history is significant, this is something you could talk to your GP about.

As you’ve not heard from your GP, it might be useful to make an appointment to discuss the concerns you have. It can cause worry if you’ve been referred for something you weren’t aware of, so talking it through with your GP might be helpful.

Breast density refers to breasts that have a higher amount of breast tissue compared to fatty tissue, and this changes over time. It can be 1 of the risk factors for developing breast cancer. You could ask to speak with the healthcare professional who did your ultrasound scan at the private clinic. They may be best placed to talk through the findings with you and explain them in more detail. As this investigation was done privately it’s unlikely to be available on the NHS app.

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 additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.

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Best wishes,

Vic

Breast Care Nurse

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