How Long Should You Wait for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Results?

Do we have to wait a month to know the sentinel lymph node biopsy report?

Hello doctor, my mother's mammogram report from the health center showed abnormalities, and she was advised to go to a major hospital for further examination.
At the major hospital, the ultrasound did not reveal anything, so they decided to perform a biopsy and drew two vials of blood, stating that the report would take three months.
After three months, when we went to check the report, they said the results were inconclusive and recommended a magnified mammogram, which identified two suspicious calcifications.
A biopsy was scheduled for the following week.
My mother mentioned that the doctor said the procedure would be quick and just involve a simple extraction.
On the day of the surgery, my father accompanied her in the morning, and it wasn't until noon that he found out she had not yet come out of the operating room.
It was only after 2 PM that the procedure was completed, and they returned home.
The next day, when I called to ask my mother, she said she didn't know it would take so long, and the bandage covered the area, so she couldn't see the size of the wound.
A week later, during a follow-up visit to check the healing of the wound, the doctor mentioned that the test results indicated a 50% chance of cancer, but it could also be negative.
He said he had sent the pathology report via Line to my father, but my father said he did not receive it.
I later checked my father's phone and confirmed that he indeed had not received it.
Recently, when I went home to check my mother's wound, I discovered that about 1/4 of her breast had been removed.
During this week's follow-up, I asked the doctor for a printed copy of the pathology report.
The doctor said that nowadays, one can use Google Translate to look up English terms and did not explain the report's contents to us.
He mentioned that they would arrange for a sentinel lymph node biopsy, stating that the incision would be small and that hospitalization would not be necessary.
He also said that the report for the sentinel lymph node biopsy would take a month.
I am worried that the situation might change again and that a lot of tissue might be removed.
Online, I found that reports typically take 4 to 7 business days, and some sources state that results can be determined in as little as 30 minutes, which makes me wonder if a month is too long.
I would like to ask for your opinion on this matter.
Thank you.

Miss Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/15

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Ms.
Lin / 39 years old / Female
1.
During this week's follow-up, I asked the doctor to print the pathology report.
A: Do you understand the report: benign? malignant?
2.
I read online that the report takes 4 to 7 business days, but some say it can be determined in 30 minutes.
A: I agree with the above statement; a frozen section report that takes 30 minutes is a preliminary report, and the final report should be based on the 4 to 7 business days timeline.
Unless the pathology report is sent to an external hospital, the 4 to 7 business days timeframe is reasonable.
Reasons for sending to an external hospital: 1.
The facility does not have a pathology department, 2.
Difficult cases are consulted with a medical center before being sent back.
Happy New Year!

Reply Date: 2024/01/15

More Info

When it comes to waiting for sentinel lymph node biopsy results, the timeline can vary significantly based on several factors, including the laboratory's workload, the complexity of the case, and the specific protocols of the medical facility. Generally, results from a sentinel lymph node biopsy can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. In many cases, pathologists can provide preliminary results within 24 to 48 hours, especially if the findings are straightforward. However, more complex cases or those requiring additional tests may extend the waiting period to one month or longer.

In your mother's case, it appears that the medical team is being cautious and thorough, which is essential in diagnosing potential malignancies. The initial imaging and subsequent biopsies are critical steps in determining whether cancer is present and, if so, how advanced it might be. The fact that the doctor mentioned a 50% chance of cancer indicates that they are considering the possibility seriously, but it also reflects the uncertainty that often accompanies such diagnoses.

It's understandable to feel anxious about the waiting period, especially when it involves a loved one's health. The emotional toll of uncertainty can be significant. However, it's important to remember that the medical team is following established protocols to ensure that they provide an accurate diagnosis. The sentinel lymph node biopsy is a crucial step in staging breast cancer, as it helps determine whether cancer has spread to the lymphatic system, which can influence treatment decisions.

Regarding the size of the incision and the extent of tissue removed, it's not uncommon for patients to be surprised by the amount of tissue excised during a biopsy. The goal of the procedure is to obtain sufficient tissue for an accurate diagnosis while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The fact that your mother was not fully informed about the extent of the surgery is concerning, and it's essential for healthcare providers to communicate clearly with patients and their families about what to expect.

In terms of the timeline for the sentinel lymph node biopsy results, while a month may seem lengthy, it is not unusual in the context of thorough pathology assessments. If you feel that the timeframe is excessive or if there are concerns about the communication from the medical team, it may be beneficial to reach out directly to the healthcare provider for clarification. You can ask about the specific reasons for the delay and whether there are any options for expediting the results.

Additionally, if you have access to the pathology report, reviewing it with a healthcare professional can provide clarity. Understanding the terminology and findings can help alleviate some anxiety and provide a clearer picture of your mother's health status.

In summary, while waiting for sentinel lymph node biopsy results can be a stressful experience, it's crucial to trust the process and maintain open communication with the medical team. If there are concerns about the length of time or the clarity of information provided, do not hesitate to advocate for your mother's health by seeking further clarification from her healthcare providers.

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