Hello, and a Q about diagnosis

  • 3 replies
  • 466 subscribers
  • 237 views

I live overseas, and doctors don’t share information with patients here until they have all their ducks in a row. I got called back after mammogram screening, and then had additional mammograms and ultrasound examinations. He said that something needs a closer examination (I could see lots of white spots in both breasts on the screen, so maybe DCIS?) and I was then sent for an MRI. That’s all I know, but of course I have been turning to Dr Google. Am I right in thinking that they have found cancer, and that the MRI to see if it is invasive or not? I wish they could have explained a little about what is going on! My doctor consultation is next Monday. 

  • Hi there, it's so frustrating when you have half a story and you¡re waiting for everything to be confirmed but I really really advise you not to Google.  Google can lead you to tales of extremes and it's likely not to be relevant to you and will only cause more worry.   Instead I'd recommend using the resources on Macmillan or having a chat with the lovely folks on the Macmillan chatline.  From overseas the number is +44 207 091 2230. They are open 8am to 8 pm (UK time) every day.

    To your question on MRI. My understanding is that these can be for detecting cancer itself, the size of any lump or whether it's spread, so could be a variety of reasons. I had MRIs during my chemo to tell how the lump was responding in terms of size.

    Best of luck for your follow up meeting next week.

    Community Champion badge

  • Thank you for your reassuring reply. I know I’m potentially worrying about nothing, but it’s been a month since my first call-back so there’s a lot swirling in my head.

  • My MRI revealed two small, previously unseen lumps. I then had a fine needle aspiration biopsy, and today I learned that the results were inconclusive (Dr said this could happen, as the “target” was difficult to hit) and I have been referred to another hospital for a vacuum assisted biopsy. Dr mentioned DCIS at today’s appointment. The anxious wait for answers continues.