- Phyllodes tumor
- Interviews
Darlene's interview
How did all start?
Regular mammogram screening suspicious for cyst. Followed up with ultrasound and core needle biopsy.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Pathology from biopsy came back as phyllodes tumor. After local pathologists diagnosed it as cancerous, a regional specialist diagnosed it as benign after a week. We removed the tumor with a wide margin lumpectomy 2 weeks later.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Radiology
Pathology
Breast surgery
The surgeon with the proper diagnosis from the regional pathologist gave me reassurance.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Online research and Facebook group for phyllodes tumor has been the most help.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Recovery has been more painful and uncomfortable than I was expecting. Finding comfortable bras has been a journey.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
My husband is very supportive, but no one else seems to understand the extent of my surgery and the worry of aggressive reoccurrence.
What things have you stopped doing?
Sleeping without a bra. Working back up to exercising.
What do you think about the future?
My breast has decreased in size and volume and there is concern about future abnormal findings with medical expenses.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Join a Facebook support group and inform yourself to ask appropriate questions about your condition.
