What To Do If A Second Opinion Differs Significantly

As specialists in diagnostics and genomics, we understand the importance of using the most advanced techniques and technology possible to provide oncologists with as much information as possible to create the most effective treatment plans possible.

This is particularly important when treating cancer, as there are hundreds of different types, and their specific characteristics and behaviours can vary depending on where they originate, how aggressive they are, genetics, physical health and other comorbidities.

Every oncologist has access to different equipment and expertise, which can lead to changes in treatment plans and emphasise the importance of accessing a second opinion.

In many cases, a second opinion will often confirm what was already known about a particular cancer diagnosis, provide additional insight or offer additional specialist treatment options, but what should you do if a second opinion reaches a very different conclusion from your primary doctor?

To understand your next steps, it is important to examine why second opinions can be particularly different at times, understand how each doctor came to the conclusion they did, and explore what options you have, including a potential third opinion.

Why Do Second Opinions Sometimes Differ?

The motivations for seeking out a second opinion can vary, particularly when it comes to a condition that is as complex as cancer can be. Because of this, getting a second opinion that is very different from the first can inspire a range of reactions.

Some people feel confused that one diagnosis, which forms or is forming the basis of a treatment plan, is different from another, whilst others may feel relieved that their decision to seek a second opinion revealed new insight about their condition.

Second options can vary for a lot of reasons, but here are the most common.

Access To Additional Tests Or Equipment

There are a lot of different tests for cancer, each of which checks for particular biomarkers, signs and symptoms of a condition. These tests can often help determine if otherwise non-specific symptoms are indicative of cancer, and multiple tests can sometimes determine one type from another.

Specialist cancer clinics have access to more specific and involved tests than a GP’s office or the oncology wing of a typical hospital, and that allows for rare, unusual or difficult-to-diagnose cancers to be adequately tested.

More Specialist Expertise

Whilst not all second opinions seek the opinion of a specialist, many second opinions are sought out in cases where the cancer is rare and beyond the experience of the primary oncologist, with a relevant specialist able to either order additional tests or interpret the existing results differently.

Cancer Progression And Comorbidities

Another reason why a second opinion can differ is that many cancers have no symptoms or relatively non-specific symptoms in their earliest stages, which can go unnoticed alongside other conditions.

For example, if a brain tumour causes migraines in someone who already experiences episodes regularly, it could potentially cause the tumour to be initially missed until additional tests are undertaken or more definitive symptoms emerge.

What Should You Do If You Receive A Significantly Different Second Opinion?

Second opinions are typically a chance to provide clarity to a treatment plan and better understand a diagnosis. This does not necessarily change, but instead will help to better shape your treatment and ensure you get the best possible care.

With that in mind, here are some steps you can take to shape your ultimate treatment decision.

Ask Each Doctor For More Information

Every oncologist has a slightly different reasoning behind their interpretation of test results, and once you get a diagnosis and/or suggested treatment plan from your doctor, an important question to ask is how they reached that conclusion.

Your doctor and cancer team will be more than happy to provide you with any answers you need; no treatment is undertaken without your consent, and they want you to have as much information as possible to make your decision. This is also the reason why doctors welcome second opinions in the first place.

Discuss The Second Opinion With Your Primary Doctor

Once you get your second opinion, your treatment will typically continue to be undertaken by your cancer care team, so it is important to discuss the findings of your second opinion with your primary doctor.

They will be able to explain where the differences are, what questions remain and what elements should be integrated into your treatment plan.

Should You Seek A Third Opinion?

In particularly complex cases, or where the second opinion is so different that there is no way to rationalise it, it may be necessary to seek out a third opinion from a specialist to provide clarity, explain existing test results and examine your medical history closely.

Explore the Queen Square website to learn more about our advanced diagnostics and genomics, as well as treatments for neurological pain and brain tumours.