Just a bit of a backstory:
I was diagnosed with pleomorphic adenoma on my left submandibular gland. Had an MRI done which determined tumour to be around 8/9mm indeterminate lesion, fast forward had a fine needle biopsy which suggested benign pleomorphic adenoma. Did a repeat Ultrasound in February 2025 confirmed that the tumour remains stable and hasn't grown. However i been experiencing a lot of tenderness when i touch the tumour and throbbing/shooting pain around that area, and seems like it is getting more intense by the day. repeat MRI scan was recommended. Radiologist is saying that the tumour does not look like a typical pleomorphic adenoma at all despite the earlier biopsy results. Since the tenderness is not a typical symptom for PA, surgery was recommended which I have booked.
Just wanted to see if anyone has had a similar experience where biopsy comes back as benign but post surgery it turns out to be a malignancy? Other than tenderness and on/off throbbing/shooting pain in the area where tumour is I haven't noticed anything else.
Hi Wasabi
Welcome to the Online Community. I am one of the Community Champions and although my cancer was of a different type, I do remember how scary it is to go through the testing. It is understandable that you are feeling anxious.
I am sorry to hear that you have been having some throbbing and shooting pain in the area and that it is getting more intense. It sounds like although they are not sure exactly what it is, it does seem like surgery to remove it is a sensible next step. I hope that the surgery can be done quickly and that it goes well for you.
I remember that it was quite a difficult time in having surgery and then waiting for my post op results. Mine came back at 3 1/2 weeks. We do have the Support Line if you feel like talking it through with someone would help.
Sometimes with some of the rarer types of cancer, it can take a little longer for someone to come along and see your posts. Hopefully by responding it will bring it to the attention of someone who has had a similar adenoma.
I wish you well for your surgery but in the meantime we are here if you need us.
Jane
The waiting is tough. I could not wait to have my surgery and just wanted the cancer out. Then it was the wait for the post op results. It can help to try to keep busy and keep in normal routines but it is naturally hard to think of much else. Do give the Support Line a call if you need to talk. Sometimes I did not want to talk to those closest to me as I didn't want to worry them
