I had 5 biopsies taken from a large lesion on my leg last Friday 13th June. The dermatologist said it would be 2-3 weeks before I would get the results. I got a call from the hospital this morning, they want to see me tomorrow. I’m assuming it’s unusual to get results so quickly, I want to be prepared, in your experience does fast results usually mean bad news?
Hi Pricilla,
My name is Anne, and I am one of the nurses on the Support Line. Welcome to the online community. I see you have already joined a few of our forums. I hope you have found them supportive so far.
I appreciate this must be a worrying time for you. Waiting for biopsy results can be a very anxious time. I’m afraid it’s impossible for us to know why the hospital would like to see you tomorrow, as it could be for a variety of reasons. Sometimes results simply come back quicker than anticipated. This can include results which are benign and cancerous.
In the meantime, it’s best to try and keep yourself busy rather than trying to guess what is likely to happen tomorrow. It’s understandable you are feeling scared as we often jump to the worst-case scenario at times like this. Our support line is open until 8pm if you’d like to have a confidential chat with one of my colleagues for some emotional support. Sometimes talking things over can help calm the mind, particularly when it is busy with anxious thoughts.
I’m not sure what sort of support you have round you, but it may be helpful to take someone with you to appointments where you are getting biopsy results. Sometimes having a ‘second pair of ears’ can be helpful, particularly if you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
If it does turn out to be skin cancer, your team may wish to carry out further tests such as scans or blood tests before deciding upon the best treatment options. However, at the moment we don’t know if it is cancer or not so it’s best not to jump ahead.
Perhaps it may be a good idea to look at ways of managing the anxiety today. Calm is a great app you can pop on your phone. It’s particularly useful during stressful times like this. Maggie’s have some lovely relaxation exercises you may wish to try too. If you’re able to, even getting outside and going for a walk can be beneficial. Please don’t consider googling anything as it will only feed the anxiety.
Do keep in touch, Pricilla, and let us know how you get on.
Take care for now,
Anne - 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.
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