Biopsy

I have an appt for a biopsy, I have heard from a few people that they just say that, usually they just do the biopsy right then. Is this true?
How long will it be before I have results from the biopsy?
Lately I have been having very wierd pain, or ache in my collerbone area, only on one side...is this at all associated with my breast lump?

[sandymann52]

When is your appt, aprilynn?  I'm sure others will be of more help to you, but, my biopsies were each scheduled seperately.  I believe we got the results within 3 business days.  I cannot offer any help in reference to the pain, mine was undetected by touch.

Keep your courage and you'll beat this beast too!  Hugs and prayers sent your way from Kentucky!
Sandy

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi. The timing of the biopsy, as well as the waiting time before getting the results, depends on the institution/ clinic you go to.  If the biopsy to be done is just fine needle aspiration (a long needle is inserted through the skin on to the mass to get a sample), this can be done immediately, in an outpatient setting.  If an incision or excision biopsy is to be done, a separate appointment may need to be arranged, as this requires more preparation.  Typically, there's a 1 week waiting time before biopsy results come out, but it really depends on the institution.

It's possible that the pain you're experiencing in your collarbone area is related to the mass, but it could also be anxiety-related.

[aprilynn]

Thank you so much for being so sweet. I can not get over how amazing this forum is, all of you couragous women helping eachother. It has been a heaven sent for me.

[aprilynn]

Thanks so much for the info...it really does help.
I am wondering if I should worry about the pain, should I call my doctor to report it or just wait until my appt next week. I dont want to be a pest or written off as paranoid.

[metalgirl70]

All those weird pains we get when we have a breast lump....

I found my lump in October of this year and two weeks later I started having stabbing pains in and around my shoulder blades.  Of couse I was scared I had advanced cancer.  I did also have a few twinges of pain in my collar bone area too!

It's taken me so long to get doctor's appointments, mammogram appointment, and ultrasound appointment (those tests inconclusive)  and now finally I'm having a surgical biopsy on December 17th.

My upper back still hurts but not as bad, as well as my arms, but then again I do also have multiple sclerosis which could have been triggered by my anxiety over the lump.

Anyway, MS or not, stress can manifest all sorts of pain symptoms, whether 'real' or just created.  I think you are ok to tell the doctor about your collar bone pain next week.  

Good luck to you, you'll get through it, but this waiting stuff does really suck!