Biopsy

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Hi, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in early December and despite scans, MRIs and three attempts by endoscopy, they are unable to take a successful sample for a biopsy. They keep telling me due to the location of the tumor, between the pancreas and the bile duct, they often struggle to secure the necessary sample. Is this normal because I'm becoming frustrated inasmuch I want to get on with the treatment.

  • Hi Anrobiter,

    Thank you for contacting us and welcome back to our online community. I hope you are finding it helpful and getting a lot of support too.

    I’m Lorna one of the Cancer Information Nurse specialists on the support line.

    I’m sorry to hear that despite numerous endoscopies your team have been unable to get a successful biopsy for you.

    It's understandable to feel let down and frustrated having had 3 endoscopies now with no successful result. Your team would have made every effort to try and obtain a satisfactory sample. However, a biopsy may not always be possible, and it can be  quite common if the cancer is situated in a difficult location like the bile duct or pancreatic gland.

    Your consultant will have to decide what to do next and should discuss this with you at your next appointment. You can speak to them directly through their secretary or your Clinical Nurse Specialist (if you have one) they can answer any questions you might have and offer support too.

    I hope this is helpful, please don’t hesitate to get back in touch with us if you’d like to chat about anything.

    Best wishes

    Lorna – Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    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.

    Ref: LB/KG

    Lorna-Macmillan (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)
  • Hi, thanks for your response, which I will take on board

    Thank you