Tests and next steps for breast cancer in women

Main tests for breast cancer

You may be referred to a breast clinic if a GP thinks you have possible breast cancer symptoms that need investigating, or if you've had a breast screening which showed abnormal results.

At the breast clinic, you will have more tests and scans to check for breast cancer or other breast conditions. These may include:

• an examination of your breasts
• a breast X-ray (mammogram)
• an ultrasound of your breasts
• taking a small sample of cells (biopsy), usually using a needle, to test for breast cancer and look for certain proteins in the breast cancer cells (which can help decide which treatments are best)

You may not need all these tests. But you will usually have all the tests you need in 1 visit at the breast clinic.

Getting your results

The breast clinic should let you know when and how you'll get your tests results. Some may be available that day. Others, such as a biopsy, can take 1 to 2 weeks.

You can call the hospital or your GP if you're worried and they may be able to update you if your results are ready.

If you're told you have breast cancer

Being told you have breast cancer can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling anxious about what will happen.

You'll be helped through your diagnosis and treatment by a team of specialists.

This team will include a clinical nurse specialist who will be your main point of contact during and after your treatment. You can ask them any questions you may have.

Next steps

If you've been told you have breast cancer, you may need more tests. These can include:

• scans, such as a CT scan, MRI scan or PET scan
• blood tests

You may not have all these tests.

The results of these tests will help show how far the cancer has spread, what type of breast cancer it is, and if the cancer has been caused by certain changes in your genes.

The specialists will use the results of these tests and talk to you about the best treatment for you.