When you have cancer, getting the right treatment the first time is very important. A second opinion can help to ensure that you'll be getting the latest therapy with the best chance of effectively treating the type of cancer you have.
When you have cancer, getting the right treatment the first time is very important. A second opinion can help to ensure that you'll be getting the latest therapy with the best chance of effectively treating the type of cancer you have.
When abnormal tissue is found during a mammogram or an exam, a small sample of tissue is collected, usually by using a core needle for biopsy of the suspicious area. After the sample is removed, it is sent to a lab for testing. If the test results indicate cancer, you may want to seek a second opinion to confirm the diagnosis and obtain treatment.
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First, ask your doctor for a referral to a breast cancer specialist, or call hospitals or medical centers that treat cancer.
The National Cancer Institute has named some centers as providing state-of-the-art, up-to-date cancer treatment. You can get a list of these centers by contacting the Cancer Information Service at 1.800.4CANCER (1.800.422.6237). 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. He or she will be able to confirm that the diagnosis was made by an institution experienced in identifying different types of cancers and disease stages. It is important to bring in all your medical records, X-rays and pathology slides from the other hospital when you go for your second opinion appointment.
When you have cancer, getting the right treatment the first time is very important. You will want to ask the second opinion doctor to look over the treatment plan to ensure it is the latest therapy with the best chance of effectively treating the type of cancer you have.
Last reviewed on 02/22/2019.
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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. Policy