Can you say reaction to something??? Yikes!!!

Despite the fact that the swollen node on my neck had gone down considerably and the very unusual way this all started, my ENT is very concerned. He had a CT with contrast done stat while we were there but was unable to arrange a FNAB of the node. He has no idea why it swelled as rapidly as it did or the reason behind the intense itching (which is finally easing).

The CT showed "thickening" and "tissue inflammation" but he thinks it could be due to whatever it was that hit me. The node itself didn't present as very concerning. This was based on what he saw but it has to be reviewed by the CT specialists. I have to go back to Baltimore for the biopsy. Contrary to the standard mantra he said "In a situation like yours we assume it's cancer until we can prove otherwise". I appreciate their concern and thoroughness but I'm a bit in freak out mode right now

So I'll know in a day or so when I'm heading back down to Baltimore and until then, it's a waiting game.

Positive thoughts and prayers.

"T"

I am honestly thinking you've had a reaction to something. I know their concerned but It sound like your node was very unhappy with something you dealt with... Food you ate or and item came into contact with. Hugs and fingers crossed.

Have you had the arthritis panel as part of your bloodwork to rule out RA / Lupus?
Maria (I have RA; possibly a touch of lupus)

UPDATE:

I spoke to my ENT's office and they said I should see my GP and call back (which I did today).

She has no idea what caused the node to swell and the itching etc. No one seems to know but this whole thing seems to be systemic as it's now progressed to my chest. I'm a little hoarse and my ears itch. Their best guess is "something viral". I was given an antibiotic to take anyway.

I discussed the "scanxiety" with my GP and she's not surprised at all that I have a bit. The med she gave me is one I can take whenever I feel I need it so I can start a week or so prior to check ups and go off afterwards. There are no side effects associated with it as it's not an SSRI and mild by med standards.

The good news is that the CT scan was "unremarkable" and my ENT said not to get the biopsy and to see him again in May. If the node persists or grows larger contact him but for all intents and purposes, I'm Ok for now.

Can you say ~WHEW~?

Positive thoughts

"T"

YEAH!!!
for the report and also getting something to keep around to beat down when the mind starts spinning and smokin a bit too much.

T, I can say Whew, and Hallelujah! I'm so glad that you bored your ENT this week . And I really like the way you're stepping off the scan-coaster. I think I need to follow your lead and will be talking to my docs about a short-cycle med. That idea just never occured to me. Thanks for sharing the info!

(((HUGS)))

Lynn