I would NOT opt for a PET scan ... so many questionable results .... I would certainly see a surgeon about an excisional biopsy of the node in question. This should give you a diagnosis. The injection of radio-active material would be of little concern ..... you get that with other radiographic tests. It's the questionable results of the PET that would concern me .... could be that you would know nothing more after this very expensive test than you do now. Another opinion with a surgeon sounds like the place to start. Best of Luck ......
What about an ultra sound of the node instead of a PET scan? Is that possible for your situation? I've had ultra sounds of nodes in the past...very simple and non-invasive.
A_J, what do you mean by a pea sized knot. What does it feel like. I have a lump and not sure if fat, or lymph node.
thank you for your replies.
They have done a sono on the node, actually it was the pea-sized little knot that I originally went in for. Thus they noticed the enlarged node in addition to the knot.
I'm just uncertain of the PET scan. I know it is to show if there are any positive nodes, but the radioactive dye concerns me.
Dear a_j: In contrast to a breast mass, in general, when there is an enlarged lymph node that needs biopsy, an excision is recommended over a needle or core biopsy because these procedures may yield inadequate tissue to render a diagnosis. Blood work is non diagnostic for breast cancer. A PET scan is not considered a screening test. When these are done, they usually include the full body. If you are not comfortable with the opinion you have been given, you could contact this doctor to discuss your specific questions or obtain a second opinion. Be sure to take your questions with you so that they are addressed.