Waiting for Core Biopsy- 5.5 X 2 X 1.8 cm Mass

WifeMomTeacher

Well, I finally got some answers; some good, some bad, and some still up in the air. I met with my surgeon today and he was very helpful in explaining what my very large mass could be, and what would be in my future depending on the biopsy results. He has me scheduled first thing Wednesday morning for a core biopsy. He is assuming due to the size of the tumor (5.5 cm X 2 cm X 1.8 cm), and the quick rate of growth (seemingly overnight) that it may be a phyllodes tumor or a giant fibroadenoma.

He also stated that due to my age (29) and the growth rate that if the tumor is malignant it would be a very aggressive type of cancer and would require immediate chemo to shrink the tumor so that it could be removed. That was hard to hear. I'm trying not to go there in my thinking yet, but hearing the words aggressive, chemo, and tumor were a bit much. He also insisted he do the biopsy as soon as possible, even scheduling me before out patient surgeries technically begin on his surgery day so that if it is malignant, it is not left longer than necessary.

For now, he explained regardless of it being benign or cancerous it is unlikely to stop hurting or go away. Considering the pain I've experienced with it since it's emergence 3 weeks ago, it is likely I'll want it removed eventually.

I am happy to have some answers and a competent physician who seems to really care. This has been a long 3 weeks, and I'm sure the week wait until the biopsy and another week for the pathology will be just as long. But I am glad I saw a doctor the moment I noticed the lump, and I am on my way to more answers and solutions. Thank you all for your support so far.

Ali81

Boo! Oh how I hope it's that benign fast growing tumor!!! How did the biopsy go!? When did they day they'll get back to you!?

Thinking of you!!!

WifeMomTeacher

The biopsy is first thing Wednesday morning and the pathology 4-5 days from there. I'm hoping by the following Monday I'll know. I've relaxed some and am just hoping for the best.

Mousey16

seems we are both doing the same waiting game. Mine also appeared seemingly overnight - about 4 cm within less than 3 weeks. I had my core biopsies (3 sites, nine in total) yesterday. Did not hurt but now petrified as I wait for the results. :-(

Thinking good thoughts for both of us.

WifeMomTeacher

Sorry to hear you're waiting as well. My core biopsy was unfortunately not painless. It wasn't miserable, but I definitely could feel the first 3 samples being taken. The first one almost felt like it hit a rib. I'm 29 with small and dense breasts, so not sure if that affected the local anesthesic or not. Now to wait some more. : ( Good luck to you! Hopefully we both hear good news soon!

WifeMomTeacher

I picked up my preliminary pathology today so I could see the word Benign and enjoy my weekend. That's not what happened. The report says Invasive Lobular Carcinoma. I have cancer. I am terrified.

tizzi

I am so sorry to read your results Has your surgeon talked you through what the treatment will be? I have a radial scar tumour which is being removed next week and then I have to wait another 2 weeks until I can hear for sure whether it is cancer or not. Big hugs to you, I can only imagine how you are feeling right now. xxxx

dtad

Wifemomteacher......Im so sorry. We all know how you feel right now. May I say that this is the worst part of the journey. The shock and fear of the unknown is horrible. I promise you that in time when you have more details and a treatment plan you will feel better. Its not a piece of cake but it is doable. Its not a death sentence either. For now try to stay busy and spend time with those you love. Also where you get treated is a huge piece of the puzzle. IMO it should be at a university based teaching hospital and you should see a breast specialist rather than a general surgeon. Good luck to you. Please feel free to private message me if you want to talk more details.....

dtad

Wifemomteacher......Im so sorry. We all know how you feel right now. May I say that this is the worst part of the journey. The shock and fear of the unknown is horrible. I promise you that in time when you have more details and a treatment plan you will feel better. Its not a piece of cake but it is doable. Its not a death sentence either. For now try to stay busy and spend time with those you love. Also where you get treated is a huge piece of the puzzle. IMO it should be at a university based teaching hospital and you should see a breast specialist rather than a general surgeon. Good luck to you. Please feel free to private message me if you want to talk more details.....

keepthefaith

WMT, so sorry to hear the news. I know you must be devastated at this point. You will come out of the fog and shock. As you gather information and start your treatment, you will also gain strength and courage to beat this! Take someone with you to your appts if you can, get all of your medical records, don't be afraid to ask questions and get second opinions, if you feel you need to. Sending ((HUGS)).