Diagnosis?
Evening all,
My mum went for a ct scan beginning of November and they mentioned pancreatic cancer, then mri, blood tests etc but now we’ve come to a bit of a standstill and they say they’re waiting for cultures to come back from blood samples and a specific test for markers and it’ll take two to three weeks, the doctors said the likelihood of it being cancer and I asked during a meeting with the gi team what the chances of it being something else and they all just sort of said the likelihood is slim. Everything so far has said cancer without someone saying ‘it is cancer’ in those exact words if that makes sense.
Just wondering how long it took for anyone to get their diagnosis and if it maybe took as long? Getting impatient which it being what it is and it’s causing more health problems for my mum
Not asking for a diagnosis or anything just about how long it took for anyone to receive theirs and maybe what tests they had to see where we are on the timeline
Hi there, I'm sorry that you're facing such uncertainty right now. I know how difficult this waiting period can be for both patients and their families.
In my experience as an oncologist, the timeline for a definitive diagnosis can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the tests involved, and any logistical constraints. For pancreatic cancer, blood tests such as tumor markers (e.g., CA 19-9), imaging (CT/MRI), and sometimes biopsy results are typically involved. Cultures, as you're mentioning, might be used to rule out other underlying issues or infections complicating the diagnostic process.
Unfortunately, two to three weeks for certain tests isn’t uncommon—it’s partly due to the precision needed and partly logistical (labs having different turnaround times). That said, if the delay is affecting your mum’s health or worsening symptoms significantly, don’t hesitate to advocate for quicker care or at least a discussion with the team about interim steps to manage her symptoms.
If things continue to feel stalled, it may help to request a second opinion at a center with a strong multidisciplinary approach to oncology and gastroenterology. At Pi Cancer Care, Dr. Bharat Patodiya is part of the team. where we take a comprehensive approach to diagnostics and treatment, we've often been able to streamline processes and coordinate care faster.
Regardless of where you are, finding a center known for this kind of teamwork can help.
Sending you strength during this challenging time, and I hope your mum gets clarity and the care she needs soon.