Patients' perspectives of being diagnosed with a B3 breast lesion
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A study of patients' perspectives of being diagnosed with a B3 breast lesion.
IRAS ID
321614
Contact name
Claire Mercer
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Salford
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The purpose of this research is to gain an understanding from the patients’ perspective to analyse the emotional, psychological, and physical effects of being diagnosed with a breast lesion which is indeterminate (B3 breast lesion) and the surveillance pathway that follows. Whilst these lesions have shown no signs of breast cancer cells within them at the original biopsy, recent research has shown that they can be associated with an increased risk of developing a breast cancer, or indeed a breast cancer within the vicinity when re-biopsied using the Vacuum Assisted Excision procedure (VACE). Recent research demonstrates a risk between 3-30%. This could be a difficult concept for a diagnosed patient who thought they were otherwise fit and well, with no signs of breast cancer and has been demonstrated to give rise to varying degrees of emotional and psychological distress.
Whilst the need for a timely diagnosis is paramount, it is important to consider the impact of an uncertain diagnosis including increased waiting for further results and then a period of surveillance. This research aims to gain an insight into patients’ perceptions and expectations of being diagnosed with a B3 lesion.
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/LO/0862
Date of REC Opinion
28 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion