Mrs Anderson went to Addenbrooke's for a second opinion

Sue Anderson, 34, from Fenstanton, was told by consultants at Hinchingbrooke Hospital the lump on her breast was due to hormonal changes.

Her breast was later removed by surgeons at Addenbrooke's Hospital after she sought a second diagnosis.

Hinchingbrooke Hospital has apologised and started an inquiry.

Mrs Anderson noticed the lump in May 2003 and was referred to Hinchingbrooke Hospital.

Staff performed an ultrasound and concluded the lump was down to fybrocystic changes, and recommended she changed her lifestyle.

On this occasion, based on what I've learned so far, we may not have done as well as we could have done Hinchingbrooke Hospital's medical director

She said: "I was in pain all the time. It was a kind of throbbing, heavy pain, and he (the doctor at Hinchingbrooke's) recommended I got a better fitting bra."

Four months later, Mrs Anderson went to Addenbrooke's for a second opinion, and doctors diagnosed breast cancer which was spreading.

Two days before Christmas, her breast was removed.

Hinchingbrooke's medical director, Declan Flanagan, said: "The decision as to when a biopsy is required, when further examination is required, can be a difficult one for all concerned.

"On this occasion, based on what I've learned so far, we may not have done as well as we could have done."