ILC question

I know many ILCs present differently, but I haven't heard of this one (although maybe someone will chime in)--I know what you're talking about, though, as I have 3 kids. My ILC felt like a small, hard pebble, just under the skin. Either way, please do get it checked out.

hugs!

Jenny

My bra felt tight on one side as the lymph nodes were involved and that slowed lymph drainage.  It was one of the early signs.  ILC doesn't often show up on a mammogram or ultrasound  so you need to ask to see a breast surgeon or specialist if the scans are negative. IDC could also cause the lymph nodes to be blocked but there should be a lump.

I searched for 2 nights when I got in bed before I found a thickening. The BS took the biopsy from the thickened area which confirmed ILC which I had never heard of.   My PCP didn't think it was cancer as it wasn't a hard lump.  Many doctors have never come across ILC.  Fortunately he sent me for scans and referred me to the BS.  

I suggest you look for any internal thickening and also check to see if your nipple is inverted or if the skin feels thick and stops the nipple from becoming erect. This will help with the diagnosis. 

I hope it turns out to be a simple infection or something else.

Sorry for chiming in here, Could you explain thickening anymore.  Are there edges to it.  I had my sister feel my lump for the first time the other day and i go back in march to the bs who isn't concerned but my sister was kind of disturbed and said eww it's flat.  Which i guess that is how it feels.  The doc thinks it's a lipoma maybe.  Does that feel flat?

ilee, I have several lipomas and they are much firmer than the thickening was, with clearer edges. Different women have described their lumps or thickening in different ways so it's best not to second guess as only a biopsy will give the right answer.

I've noticed from both personal experience and reading these threads that doctors don't like being told by their patient what the diagnosis might be or what tests they want run.  Best to start out letting them examine you and just state the symptoms.  You will almost certainly be sent for a mammogram and ultrasound which is standard practice so best not to push for an MRI till these have been done or you could push the doctor's buttons. I'm glad your seeing a breast specialist.

Getting a biopsy is important if there are no clear answers, it's the only way to get a diagnosis once they are convinced there is no other explanation for the problem.  Also make sure any  scans and follow up appointments happen soon as you have waited months already which is understandable since the media always emphasise lumps.

Please make sure to let us know how the appointment goes, and try to keep busy so you don't stress too much.

Hi ilee62,

I have ILC, stage IV, bone mets.  Yes, I have that feeling.  The side with the cancer feels so swollen and enlarged.  It is very uncomfortable.  The band on my bra feels like it is digging in.  Even when I add a strap extender.  It got even worse with the arimidex.  Today I am really feeling it.