Cancerous polyp

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Hi everyone, new to the forum. I'm just back from hospital appointment with consultant. I had a large polyp (2cm) removed two weeks ago and results showed some cancer. Waiting for CT scan and then decide on next steps (surveillance colonoscopies or resection). Feeling really upset and worried, on removal they thought it was benign so devastating to find out that it isn't.

I'm female, 49 and in good health otherwise. Had colonoscopy last October after experiencing bleeding and polyp was discovered then. 

I live alone and have good friends but family quite far away and I'm really worried I'm not going to be able to cope with what comes next. 

  • Hi  ,

    I think many of us here will know how you feel.  I had no symptoms and it was picked up by a routine test.  Hearing the news is shocking. 


    You might find no more treatment is needed and that’s it gone.  It does get easier when you know all the facts and have a plan.  

    keep reaching out here for support, this is a great group. 

    wishing you well!

    CerysM

  • Hi Worrier75,

    I had my colonoscopy over 2 weeks ago. They found a suspicious area in my bowel. It was sent away for an urgent biopsy. I then had a CAT scan about 10 days later. The waiting has been difficult to deal with for myself and family. No definitive word yet. 

    I understand that it has been a shock. My friend's sister was in the same position although they identified it during the colonoscopy last February. She had a CAT scan and underwent an operation and some further treatment. She has been given a clean bill of health. 

    Just sending love and support to you. Everyone here says that once you have a plan, things seem more in your control. As CerysM wrote , you might find that you don't need treatment. Take care. X

  • Hi CerysM,

    Thanks for this, it helps knowing others know exactly how I'm feeling. 

  • Thanks for sharing this IonaF, I hope you get your results soon. Great to hear that about your friend's sister.

    Sending love and support back to you! X 

  • Hi, I can totally understand what a worrying time this is, and a shock given first indications were the polyp was benign.

    The waiting is just horrible.  Hang in there, you may not need further treatment but if you do you will be in the hands of experts. As so many say, things feel a lot less terrifying with a plan.

    This is a lovely group with people at all different stages, I have found it so helpful and reassuring.

    Best wishes xx

  • Thank you Arial88, it's been a horrible day but this group has definitely helped me. Hopefully the plan will be sorted soon.

  • Hi, I’m 38 and awaiting removal for x3 polyps 18mm-20mm in my Cecum and right colon, scheduled for early March. Please can I ask where your polyp was and if you had any others removed? I had some smaller ones removed in January which were 10mm and pre-cancerous (sessile serrated) but it’s the larger ones I’m worried about. I hope things get easier for you,

  • Hi, nice to hear people going through the same things! I’m 39 and had 20 polyps found last year during a colonoscopy (I have since found out I have a genetic condition causing them). They removed a 50mm one which was benign, but they did find one that was 20mm and cancerous. I don’t think the size necessarily means more to worry about, and they take a long time to develop into cancer. Just make sure you get that appointment in March, if they delay don’t be afraid to email the consultant! Hope all goes well x

  • Sorry to hear that. They did mention possibly doing some genetic testing on me. I bet that was a shock, at least they can keep monitoring you going forward now that you know you have the condition. 
    how are you doing now? Did you need any further treatment following removal? Thanks for the reply x

  • They haven’t done the testing yet, but they told me because of the types of polyps and number it’s most likely genetic. I’ll still do the testing but it’s good to know so my brothers can get a referral too. I’m waiting for my surgery at the moment, the first month was hardest, as  is going through too! But I’m lucky that it was caught early and hasn’t spread x