Hello, new to this, will try not to ramble. After 30 years (I’m 53) of lumps, bumps, cysts, mastitis, mammograms and biopsies, I was diagnosed nearly 2 years ago with stage one, intermediate in one breast. Quickly had sentinel node removal, no spread thank providence, and single mastectomy. Recovered quickly and well, no further treatment required, and have excellent follow up from a fantastic Breast team. I have been extremely fortunate. I had my second annual mammo last Friday and have been recalled this Thursday - trying not to panic about the speed, I rang to ask why (notified by letter) and was told that there is an area requiring further photography and that my surgeon will be there on Thursday to carry out ultrasound and/or biopsy then if required. I’m not overly anxious but am a bit concerned because of another matter: had ultrasound because of painful gynaecological problems over Christmas and have ovarian cysts, one of which may have burst during the holiday hence the discomfort. Radiographer - different hospital - wasn’t too concerned, would write to my GP but said she saw nothing that particularly alarmed her. Haven’t heard anything since. I wasn’t too concerned either but now with the recall I can’t help wondering: I know ovarian cysts can occasionally be malignant and I can’t help connecting the two and thinking about secondaries. Don’t want to consult doctor google - learned my lesson there before! - but don’t want to make a fuss about 2 things that are probably unrelated either. Just wondering what other people would do, should I insist on further investigation of the cysts at GP practice or maybe just mention them at my recall on Thursday? Thanks for reading.
Hi Sunny, I was diagnosed 2.5 yrs ago and had a mastectomy (plus removal of nodes as many were affected).
I am sorry you are going through this. It’s completely normal that you’d be anxious. As you’ve had a mastectomy I’m assuming it’s the other Breast that you had the mammo done?
It may just be that they are being very cautious - it doesn’t mean that it’s secondaries. Most call backs are not regarding anything serious, but because mammos aren’t very clear so any shadows or slight marks they have to look at again with ultrasound. If there is a problem it’s really good that they are being so thorough
I would definitely tell the Breast surgeon about the ovarian cysts. I would imagine that the cysts may need to be looked at in more detail. There may be no connection at all but better to give the Breast team all the facts. This must be a very anxious time for you and I wish you all the best with your appt.
I had the results of a PET scan last week. I was dreading it as I’ve been having lots of back pain and was convinced that it was due to sevondaries. The scan was clear of cancer but arthritis was highlighted on my spine. So I understand the absolute fear that you have but hold on to the strong possibility that the re call will be all clear and that the ovarian cysts won’t be significant.
Are you able to take someone with you? Wishing you lots of good luck and strength for your appointment
Baz x