Rash - concerned

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leslie150
leslie150 Member Posts: 10
edited June 2014 in IBC (Inflammatory Breast Cancer)

I am a 60 year old woman - no history of cancer of any kind, and just had a mammogram a month ago, with negative results.

 Yesterday, while showering, I noticed a rash on my right breast, just above the nipple. The rash was about two inches in total, and within it there appeared to be a small bump with a scab ... like that of a pimple or possibly an insect bite. By today the rash has spread considerably. It is all around my nipple, and very red and itchy. There are a few other bumps, and a small amount of clear serum-like fluid coming from the initial bump. There is no overall swelling of my breast, no warmth, but the rash is spreading and is very red and itchy. It actually looks a lot like poison oak; however I am not allergic to that, and have not had any exposure in any event.

Of course I will see my gyn as soon as I can, but in the meantime I am just wondering if it is possible for IBC to develop as quickly as this has appeared? Two days ago there was nothing. I realize I am not in the general demographic for IBC, but I am feeling a bit scared right now.

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  • leslie150
    leslie150 Member Posts: 10
    edited November 2008

    Okay - it's me again. I am beginning to be very frightened ... the more I read on the internet the more thei "rash" looks very suspect. I have a call in to my gynecologist, but they are only taking voice mail and I must wait for them to return my call. I am hoping they are not out for a Thanksgiving break.

     This morning the rash is still there, despite use of hydrocortisone cream overnight. It is very red and itchy, and now appears to be encompassing the aerola. My breast is not swollen, but the shape of the nipple is now different from the other one. The surrounding area is puffed up enough that it is affecting the nipple.

     Of course this would all have to happen on a holiday week - I don't know if I should wait until next week, or what? It seems weird to try to go to an emergency room - they would only be able to provide general care and I am sure would refer me to my own doctor.

    I really feel so afraid and alone right now.

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  • TBird1964
    TBird1964 Member Posts: 58
    edited November 2008

    Hey there

    Sorry you're feeling anxious and scared. Don't wait to get an appointment. If for no other reason then to give yourself some peace of mind. I do not have IBC but have symptoms that I to am concerned about. Having a biopsy wed. You're # 1 so make yourself the priority right now. Stay positive, it may be nothing serious. I'll keep you in my prayers.

    Teresa

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  • rosied51
    rosied51 Member Posts: 170
    edited November 2008

    I would not wait as I am speaking from personal opinion as I went to Urgent Care just to get some kind of answer since my surgeons appt isn't till Dec3rd. Give yourself peace of mind.

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  • leslie150
    leslie150 Member Posts: 10
    edited November 2008

    Thank you so much for the replies - I did finally connect with my gyn and was able to schedule an appointment for this afternoon. Usually they don't give you an appointment for weeks, but I was very insistent, and it paid off. Now ... hopefully she will help get to the root of this. I am still very anxious - but at least if it's the worst, I will have begun the journey at the earliest possible moment.



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  • leslie150
    leslie150 Member Posts: 10
    edited November 2008

    I saw my gyn this afternoon. She took one look at my breast and said, "That's a bug bite."  I aksed her about IBC, and she said it looked like a spider bite. She suggested that I put hot compresses on it.

    She also said the fact that I had a negative mammogram just last month was an indicator that this isn't anything to worry about. I told her that I had been reading other info on the internet regarding IBC and mammograms. Also that I had never had an insect bite that has caused such a widespread rash.

     In the end, we agreed that I will return in a week for another examination, and hopefully the rash will be gone. If not, we will look at other options ... but I have no idea what she has in mind. The rash and irritation does appear to have "calmed" a bit since this afternoon - it is not spreading and does not appear as inflamed, but it's still there and very itchy. And I am still concerned.

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  • TBird1964
    TBird1964 Member Posts: 58
    edited November 2008

    Hello again

    It sounds like good news about the rash but I'm glad you are following up to make sure there is improvement. And if you are still concerned, you can always consult a breast surgeon for a second opinion. The only way you will feel safe and secure is if you know everything has been done to keep you safe and healthy. "Insisting" can get good results and help you rest at night. Good luck.

    Teresa

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  • leslie150
    leslie150 Member Posts: 10
    edited November 2008

    Thank you, Teresa. Your post is most welcome. As of now, the rash does seem to be fading, but I will definitely keep close watch on it. Part of my concern comes from the fact that I have noticed an odd itching around the nipple on my right breast for about six months or so. Maybe nothing, but I am not going to ignore this. I think the appointment for next week will be a good thing.

    You will be in my thoughts tomorrow - I know you have a biopsy, and I am sending wishes for a good outcome. Thanks you so very much for being there for me ...    Leslie

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