How can two biopsies plus a chest scan plus mri with contrast be inconclusive?

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Hi I’ve just been for two needle biopsy, a chest scan and an MRI with contrast for a large lump in my neck. After expecting results tomorrow I’ve been told they’re inconclusive and I need another bigger biopsy along with body pet scan. 
Im so worried. How can all those tests be inconclusive? 
I’ve spoken to the Doctor and they say they can’t give me any results etc til I have the new tests. 
Has anyone else had similar. 

  • Hi  and welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your ongoing diagnosis.

    Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be such a stressful and challenging time but unfortunately, despite having all these tests, ending up not having a clear diagnosis can happen….. this was me over 25 years ago and for me it took 6 biopsies and a good few months to eventually get the pathology to tell the truth…… and at the same time all the scans with contrast showed nothing.

    A lump in the neck can relate to a number of different cancer types so only further biopsies can provide the truth.

    This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we look to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support.

    The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)………… so once you get a clear diagnosis do have a look through THIS LIST you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.

    These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from members who are navigating the exact same journey.

    The Macmillan Support Line is open between 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00…… this service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support or just a listening ear.

    Do get back to me if you need further help.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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  • Hi again  ……. I see that you have joined one group and been posting on another…… until you get a clear diagnosis this truly can be a number of things……

    I was diagnosed back in 1999 with a rare type of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma….. then in late 2013  a brick sized mass grew in my neck and following a deep surgical biopsy it was found I had a different type of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma….. so honestly this could be a number of things ((hugs))

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

    Community Champion Badge