Wait for expert pathologist's report

Hi,

Has anyone else had to wait for an “expert pathologist’s report” after their WLE? My op was 3 weeks ago for DCIS which (unusually) presented with a lump. I had first appt with consultant a week later and was told there were clear margins but because of an unusual area in the tissue removed they were sending it away for an expert opinion. Had second appt for results today and after an hour’s wait was informed they had nothing to tell me as the results had still not been received. Consultant vague as to when I might hear from them and there was no sense of any urgency on his part. I suspect that the expert pathologist is on holiday and my sample is at the bottom of a big pile. If pathologist confirms no invasive element then next step is radiotherapy and I have read elsewhere on the forum that NICE guidelines state that radiotherapy should begin within 31 days of surgery. I know I have to have a booking appointment first before starting this so there is probably no way that I am going to start this in under the 31 days. If it isn’t DCIS and is invasive I have to have sentinel node biopsy and I just want to know which route I  am taking and get on with the treatment… I just feel as if everyone is in ‘holiday mode’ and nothing is going to get done…

Hi Caro-B

Whilst you are waiting for the other users to reply with their knowledge and experiences you might find it helpful to give the BCC helpline a call on 0808 800 6000.  Here you can share your thoughts and concerns with a member of staff who will offer you a listening ear as well as emotional support and practical information. lines are open weekdays 9 to 5pm and Saturday 10 to 2pm.

Best wishes Sam, BCC Facilitator 

Hi Caro-B

So sorry you are having to wait for results longer than you expected, it is an awful time and the waiting is horrid.

I had lumpectomy and SNB on 14th April and due to bank holidays, holidays …it was 14th May when I got provisional results and 19th June when I got my full pathology report and discussed with oncologist. I started chemo on 30th June.
I found the waiting torturous, and actually went on holiday for 10 days to lanzarote at the beginning of June as I was told I wouldn’t see the oncologist until mid June.
I have felt so much better since getting my treatment plan and actually moving on, and you will to, just hang on in there.

Good luck

Wendy

Hi all,
Waiting is such a killer. I am now 15 months down the line, and discharged to sel care and yearly mamos, but recall those sleep deprived nights vividly. My GP prescribed Atarax (an antihistamine ) which knocked.me out but no hangover effect of sleeping pills the next day. This meant i could function better.
Wishing you well, be kind to your self and loved ones.
LL xx

my heart goes out to u guys. hold in there