Diagnostic Mammogram

Screening mammograms check for lumps in the breast when there no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. Two X-rays are taken of each breast to determine if there have been any tissue changes compared to previous mammograms and look for tumors and microcalcifications.

Diagnostic mammograms are used to help diagnose or rule out breast cancer. Diagnostic mammograms are given after a lump or other sign or symptom of the breast cancer has been found. For diagnostic mammograms, more x-rays are taken to obtain views of the breast from several angles. Suspicious areas may be magnified to produce a detailed picture. The purpose is to locate and analyze potentially cancerous tumors or cells.

What happens next if mammogram is abnormal?
If an abnormality is found, it may or may not be something that needs treatment. The next step would be another "imaging" test like an ultrasound. This is a painless test that will allow the radiologist to better understand what was seen on the mammogram. Another imaging test that is used is an MRI. If the radiologist feels that the abnormality needs further study, a biopsy may be recommended.

Your physician will perform several tests to distinguish if the lump is normal or abnormal.
- Feeling the lump (palpation) to determine how hard and if the lump moves around. Cancerous lumps many times are hard and do not move.
- Diagnostic mammogram to determine size and location of the lump as well as learn more about the surrounding tissue and lymph nodes.
- Ultrasound test to determine if the lump is sold or filled with fluid.
- Thermal imaging (not common) measures shifts in physiological and metabolic activity.

If the lump appears suspicious, the next step is to have a biopsy and analyze cells from the lump.