Second Opinion Needed in Wisconsin
I have had tests done at my local hospital and I’ve been pleased by their professionalism, caring and swiftness in getting things done. However, I think it’s in my best interest to have a second opinion at one of the larger hospitals here in Wisconsin. Do any of you have recommendations re: UW Madison or Froedtert Hospital?
I had my last annual mammogram last September and it was clear. Mid-February, I found some slight dimpling in my left breast, followed by swelling and skin discoloration on the dimpled area. Saw my dr 2/19/20 who felt two masses and ordered diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound which was done 2/21/20. The radiologist saw no changes when compared to my September mammogram but he did suggest a skin biopsy to rule out Inflammatory Breast Cancer. I was referred to the breast surgeon who I saw 2/24/20. She also felt masses and ordered breast MRI which was done 2/27/20. I saw her the following day for review. I still have not seen the report on MyChart but she said a large mass was seen with significant blood flow to it. She also said the lymph nodes looked good (yay!). Although she said she is sure it isn’t Inflammatory Breast Cancer (I do not present with peau d’orange) she needs tissue to know exactly what it is so they’re going to try an ultrasound guided core needle biopsy. I’m uncertain how that is going to work considering the last ultrasound saw no mass. Unfortunately, even if it is DCIS she feels a mastectomy will be required due to the size of the mass and the density of the breast.
I think I should have a second opinion before anything is done, but not sure where. Any thoughts or experiences would be appreciated!
Comments
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University of Wisconsin at Carbone is the only NCI Cancer Center in WI
https://www.cancer.gov/research/nci-role/cancer-centers/find/uwcarbone
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Grma4pookie
After my cancer diagnosis I had consultations at several cancer centers near me including Northwestern in Chicago, Carbone in Madison and Froedtert in Milwaukee. Froedtert was the right fit for me.
Best of luck
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soulshine1969 what made you choose Froedtert? Anything in particular? I appreciate your willingness to share. Thank you!
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Further away but regional/ Chicago suburbs: I got a second opinion from a wonderful, innovative, science-based integrative Oncologist Dr Keith Block. Very comprehensive 4 hour consult, His book is "Life Over Cancer"
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Started treatment at UW Carbone Cancer Center Breast Clinic in August 2019. Really like my MO but be aware that the breast folks don’t do blood tests for tumor markers and no PET scans. My original dx was back in Ohio (moved to WI 2 weeks after dx) and the treatment suggested there was the same as at UW. My MO does both research and patient care. Her team of an NP and nurse are quick to respond with any issues I’ve had.
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For me Froedtert has been the right decision for me. Even though it’s an hour drive from my Illinois home, it’s only a half hour from my lake house. I love my MO and I’ve always felt like I’m getting the best care.
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