Should you get a second opinion on a biopsy?

When you face a serious diagnosis like cancer or one that requires surgery, it’s a good idea to get a medical second opinion on the interpretation of your biopsy. That second opinion can confirm the original diagnosis and treatment plan or, in some cases, change the diagnosis.

Why would a pathologist get a second opinion?

A second opinion should be obtained by a physician for a challenging case in an attempt to arrive at an accurate diagnosis leading to optimal treatment. And second opinions should be requested by patients when diagnoses require life-altering therapy, to ensure accurate diagnoses and proper treatment plans.

How do I get a second opinion on breast cancer?

Getting a second opinion means asking another breast cancer specialist, or a team of specialists, to review all of your medical reports and test results, give an opinion about your diagnosis, and suggest treatment options.

Can a doctor tell if a breast lump is cancerous?

Contacting a doctor It is impossible to tell if a lump is cancerous or benign from self-examination alone. Other symptoms a person should look out for include nipple discharge, breast skin dimpling that resembles orange peel, and changes in nipple and breast color.

Should you get a second opinion before a breast biopsy?

Certainly a second opinion should be obtained before any definitive surgery, like a mastectomy, or a treatment with substantial side effects, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy. People should not worry too much that a second opinion on their breast pathology will delay treatment.

How do I get a second opinion on a pathology report?

Contact the pathology department where you will be getting a second opinion and find out exactly what the pathologist will need. Usually he or she will want the original tissue samples and any slides that were made after your biopsy or surgery.

Should I get a second opinion on mammogram?

Patients shouldn’t hesitate to get a second opinion at any point during the process if they’re uncomfortable and feel they need reassurance about the results, Jones said. Cancer specialists can often detect subtleties other physicians might miss.

How long should you wait to get a breast lump checked?

Make an appointment to have a breast lump evaluated, especially if: The lump feels firm or fixed. The lump doesn’t go away after four to six weeks. You notice skin changes on your breast, such as redness, crusting, dimpling or puckering.

When do you get a 2nd opinion on a mammogram?

How do I get a second opinion on breast cancer treatment?

Get the names of several doctors and hospitals that offer the newest, most effective treatments and have the most experience in treating breast cancer. When seeking another opinion, you will want the doctor making the second opinion to make sure that first diagnosis is correct.

When should you get a second opinion on breast reconstruction?

If you’re planning breast reconstruction, talking with more than one plastic surgeon is a good idea, given that several reconstruction options are available. And if your doctor has recommended neoadjuvant treatment — chemotherapy or hormonal therapy to shrink the tumor before surgery — you may want to get a second opinion about this.

Do I need a second radiologist before breast cancer surgery?

Before having surgery: Imaging studies such as mammograms, ultrasound, and MRIs play a key role in determining the extent of the breast cancer. It can be helpful for a second radiologist to look over your images and give his or her opinion of the results.

Should I seek a second opinion if my test results indicate cancer?

If the test results indicate cancer, you may want to seek a second opinion to confirm the diagnosis and obtain treatment. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services.