Worried about skin changes

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1

Hi. I am 72 years old, had bc 10 years ago in my right breast. I had a lumpectomy and rads and I took anastrozole for 8 years. It was found I had some micro-metastases after an axillary node dissection. I have seen my GP recently about a small pink/reddish patch on my other breast, about the size of a 10p. She said she thought it was dermatitis and prescribed moisturiser and made me an appointment for 2 weeks to check on it. I’ve never had that before. It hasn’t got any bigger but it hasn’t changed or faded. When I see her again should I push to go to the breast clinic to get checked out? I’m worried that the cancer has returned in my skin.

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Hello lyndynm

Thank you for posting.

It’s understandable that you’re concerned about the red patch you’ve noticed on your left breast. Nearly everyone who has been treated for cancer worries about it coming back (recurrence) and you’re not alone in being anxious about this. The uncertainty and fear of breast cancer returning is very real.

It’s good you’ve seen your GP who has given you treatment and plans to review it with you in two weeks. There is some information on the NHS website about dermatitis which you may find helpful.

It’s important to let your GP know how you are feeling about this and your worry the breast cancer has returned in the skin so they can assess the area again and offer advice on further treatment or referral to a hospital clinic if appropriate.

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

Julie

Breast Care Nurse

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