Thanks for these answers - I'm feeling slightly more confident now and feel better equipped for my appointment next month
Thanks
IiL
Cyclic pain and lumpiness, while annoying, aren't typically signs of cancer. But a lump which persists needs attention. If the lump to which you refer is only noticeable at certain times of the month, you should be sure to have followup at an appropriate time if, at the time of your visit, it's not as definable as at other times. As to what specific tests: when there is a definite lump, the choices are many. Sometimes followup alone is ok, if the examiner and patient are very confident it's a harmless lump and a mammogram is ok. Sometimes sampling it with a needle is done as a quick office procedure; if the lump is a cyst -- which from your description it could well be, because the pattern is consistent with fibrocystic changes -- the needle would produce fluid and cause the lump to go away. Depending on the facilities available, if the needle doesn't return fluid, it can produce a bit of tissue that can be examined microscopically. When a lump feels benign, and the needle tissue sample is ok, and a mammogram is ok, the chance of missing cancer is very remote. At some point, you'll likely need a mammogram. And, depending on the nature of the lump, it might be recommended to do a surgical biopsy.
Dear IrishinLondon, What to expect with the examination is that they will do a history and physical exam. Be sure to point out where you are feeling the persistant lump. They will ask about how long it has been there, any changes etc. They will also ask questions regarding your health history etc. Likely further evaluation beyond physical examination will be recommended such as an ultrasound and mammogram. If they do send you for further testing ask about when to expect results, and how you will be notified of the results.