Getting help

[katalina444]

I went in for annual pap smear etc last Monday (5/16).  The PA found a palpatable mass and referred me for an ultrasound and blood test (CA125).  I returned to the hospital Monday evening for the blood draw and arranged for an ultrasound appt the next day.  I apprecite the need to move as quickly as possible with this issue as I had a sister die at 44 from breast cancer (I am 56).  After the ultrasound (which I assume confirmed the mass as I was next referred to a CAT scan), I was able to make an appt for a CAT scan the next day (Wed).  I found out on Thursday (from the PA's office helper) that I had been referred to a gyn oncology specialty group for the 26th of June.  I also found out from her (she perused my reports) that I have a large mass covering both my ovaries.  In the meantime, I am developing pains (prickly and "stitch" like in my upper abdomen and also in the flank area).  I called the gyn oncologist office to see if I could possibly come in earlier and have not been able to get past the "front desk".  I have yet to talk to a doctor from the referring hospital or even the PA who originally discovered the mass.  I am really concerned about metastasis and the removal of the mass as quickly as possible.  Is there anyway to "break through" the system?  I fail to understand how doctors can not move with IMMEDIACY in this type of scenario.  Although I do not have arterial bleeding and my respiration is good (at this time), every minute counts in saving my life.  I appreciate that people are busy, but do these types of practices not have "emergency" time built in to their schedule?  How can I help myself to save myself?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
it is very hard to wait for an appointment. You have had a breathtakingly speedy evaluation. By now you have seen the gyn oncologist. Please let us know how everything went.
best wishes

[Gail8247]

Well, to be honest, my own doctor told me to go the ER, yep the ER - it's hard to send a patient home in pain and you will be taken care of quicker.  Be sure it's a hospital that the GYN Onc goes to.

I hope all goes well for you.

Gail