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Ovarian Cancer (Expert Forum)
Getting help
Answered by
Annekathryn Goodman, M.D. - Gynecologic Cancers, Complex Gynecologic, Surgeries, Palliative Care, Acupuncture
Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions and support regarding ovarian cancer issues, such as: Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Clinical Trials, Genetics, Hysterectomy,Immunotherapy, Ovarian Cancer Types, Radiation Therapy, Risk Factors, Screening, Staging, Surgery.
Getting help
by katalina444, Jun 22, 2008 02:09AM
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?
Doctor's Answer
by Annekathryn Goodman, M.D., Jun 26, 2008 08:56PM
, Jun 26, 2008 08:56PM
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
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
I hope all goes well for you.
Gail