Hello, hope everyone is well.
I’m new to this forum so wasn’t sure where to post.
About a month ago I noticed when I yawn, at the very end of the yawn specifically, there's a bit of pressure somewhere between under my jaw and in my neck. I had an ultrasound and the sonographer saw slight inflammation, I mentioned I had melanoma nearby three years ago so was being cautious getting it checked and based on that she recommended a fine needle aspiration to err on the side of caution.
During the weeks before the FNA I had a cold, a sinus infection and covid.
My results have come back as showing atypical cells. As I understand it, atypical cells can be as a result of an infection, so since I just had covid before the biopsy, plus a sinus infection a week before that, I'm trying to get information to confirm whether it's totally possible that the atypical cells are due to the infections I had. Does anybody know, or have experience with atypical cell results?
I have an appointment coming up to discuss the result and I believe the advice is to have a biopsy and/or removal of the lymph node. I don't want these procedures if they are unnecessary.
If I didn't have a history of cancer then I would have just had a follow up appointment in a few months as the inflammation wasn’t concerning and likely related to my recent infection(s).
I also have, in the last few days, had a sore throat and possibly a throat infection, so this could be another issue if I was to have another biopsy in a few days time, could this then skew the results again. I rarely get colds and flu.
I don't know if it makes a difference that my melanoma was caught very early and was stage 1b, removed fully etc.
I did have the feeling in my neck before the sinus infection, and covid, but I had another cold before this and I can't remember the timeline of this and whether the cold or the pain can first. So in the back of my mind, while I feel that the atypical cells very likely could be from the infections/viruses I've had, I am aware that it doesn't explain the feeling in my neck. Having said that, the pain is less prominent now too.
Thanks all.
Hi Cmfq and welcome to the Online Community although so sorry to hear about your ongoing concerns but I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support here on the Online Community.
First you question about atypical cells is very medical specific, the Community members are not medically trained but you may find our Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section helpful.
The New to Community area is like our reception where we can signpost our many dedicated support groups and services and as you have had Melanoma in the past you may want to join our Melanoma group. This is a safe place to talk to other people who may have a similar diagnosis or treatment experiences.
If you'd like to connect in with a group, you need to join the group. First click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New (Computers) or + (Mobile Devices). You will then see a dropdown menu so hit ‘Start a Discussion in New here, say hello’ and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also search through existing ‘Discussions’ and click [reply] if you want to put up a comment.
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via web chat. This service provides cancer information, emotional support, benefits and financial guidance or just a listening ear.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
Talking to people face to face can indeed help a lot but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best.
