Hello,
My gp referred me to hospital for xray, bloodtests and biopsies of a mouth ulcer that hasn't healed after 7 weeks and another area of white patches. The doctors told me I have to wait 6 weeks for my results and that the tests will confirm cancer. So I'm unsure whether it is or isnt and how am I supposed to carry on as "normal" for the next 6 weeks?
Any advice is really appreciated. Thankyou.
Hi RosieL,
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community. My name is Anne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists. I’m very glad you contacted us today for more information as it sounds as though you’re having a bit of a worrying time.
One of the most common symptoms of mouth cancer is an ulcer which doesn’t heal within 2 weeks. This symptom can also be caused by other conditions, but it is important to have this properly investigated.
Waiting for results can be a very worrying time. I’m not sure if they meant that the tests ‘will’ confirm cancer or that the tests will be able to confirm whether or not the ulcer is indeed cancerous. The areas may look suspicious, but only the biopsy will be able to determine exactly what cells are present.
Biopsy results usually take around 2 weeks to come back from pathology. However, I see you have been advised your results may take 6 weeks. I wonder if things are particularly busy in your area, which may be causing a delay in turnaround. Perhaps you may wish to speak to your GP in the meantime to chat about this further. Cancer Research UK has some useful information regarding cancer waiting times.
If you are diagnosed with cancer, a team of health professionals called the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) will then get together to review all the results and plan the best treatment options.
Remember you can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Take care for now,
Anne (Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse)
Ref:KM
