Breast cancer and diagnosis

[daisya]

Is there any way a consultant radiologist can "diagnose" breast cancer from the results of looking at a mamogram and doing a scan of the area? What would you think if that consultant said, "it doesn't look benign"? I am asking on behalf of a close family member. Thanks for your input.

[woofgang]

Well he has given as his opinion that "it doesn't look benign" and yes, my experience is that while they cannot be definite without a biopsy, an experienced clinician can tell a lot from the imaging. Sorry, I imagine that's not what you want to hear.

[yogasun]

I'm no expert (where's Sqad, he'll know) but I can only thnk that through his/her experience in looking at mammograms the consultant thought it had a malignant appearance by shape, etc.

[daisya]

Thank you, no it's not the news I wanted to hear but I did ask...we're now awaiting biopsy report and not looking forward to the 7 - 10 day wait...I think that's too long but know nothing at all about how it all works.

[murraymints]

think it would take a biopsy for that !

[Sqad]

And there lies the problem.....can an X-ray appearance be diagnostic of cancer. Answer......Yes.

But can it be wrong......answer Yes.

Biopsy is mandatory.

Does that help?

[daisya]

Thanks sqad yes it does help, my mind was that until biopsy result comes in then really they can't confirm. I guess that's why the radiologist said, "I don't think it looks benign"...not committing herself...so it's playing the waiting game and I must say it's hell just as it is for many who do the same.

[woofgang]

been there daisya sending some prayers for your family.

[daisya]

Thank you woof...that's really nice of you. Must say I need all the vibes I can get, it's taking its toll at the moment and no doubt you will understand that. Thank you x

[daisya]

I just wanted to update this for the kind souls who answered. The diagnosis is breast cancer stage 2 and they want to do a mastectomy. I don't want to look it all up as I can't face it at this minute. I'm devastated to say the least, I don't know how she will cope but probably better than me atm though at least I'm here for her. Thanks for your help.

[gness]

Daisya....so very sorry. All my thoughts and love. Gx

[Mojo-Jo-Jo]

The care is wonderful if it's any consolation. Good luck. It's not the end of the world. Me and Kylie are here to prove that. :)

[daisya]

Thank you gness that's really nice of you x

[daisya]

Thanks mojo I am trying to be positive, she's never ill, always keeps going so this is a tremendous shock, out of the blue. I know it's not always bad news and it's reassuring to know when others confirm it, so thank you for your words of support. x

[Mamyalynne]

Daisy, much love to your family member and indeed all the family as it affects all - treatment is so much improved. In my prayers.♥

[Mojo-Jo-Jo]

I'm not going to lie to you Daisy, it's not easy but she has you, so that's a good thing. I hope it all goes well for you I truly do x

[daisya]

Thanks everyone, such kind support when I need it most. I'll keep you posted when I can x

[daisya]

Just wanted to say as an update, she is having a mastectomy tomorrow and I am so nervous about it. Goodness knows what she is going through tonight but we have a wonderful family who is supporting her as we will be throughtout this dreadful ordeal. I thought you might like to know how things are going, thanks for reading.

Daisy

[boxtops]

Daisy, thanks for the update - we'll be thinking of you and your family member tonight and tomorrow ♥