A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast that is used to recognize and diagnose breast disorders in women who have breast problems, like a lump, pain, or nipple discharge, as well as for women who have no breast ailments. The method allows the analysis of breast cancers, harmless tumours, and cysts before they can be detected by palpation.
Mammography doesn’t prove that an unusual area is cancer, but if it suggests an important suspicion of cancer, the tissue will be removed for a biopsy. Tissue may be extracted with a needle or open surgical biopsy and analyzed under a microscope to conclude if it is cancer.
Mammography has been used for about 30 years, and in the past 15 years, technical development has been immensely improved the technique as well as the results. Dedicated tools used these days for breast X-rays, presents studies that are high in quality, but poor in radiation dose. Radiation hazards are considered to be negligible.
The advancement of digital mammography allows advanced breast imaging, in particular, for women younger than 50 years of age, women with dense breast tissue, and women who are premenopausal or perimenopausal. Digital mammography renders electronic images of the breasts that can be improved by computer technology, stored on computers, and even transmitted electronically in situations where remote access to the mammogram is needed. The procedure for digital mammography is conducted the same way as a regular mammogram.
What are the different types of mammograms?
According to the National Cancer Institute:
Screening mammogram. A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect breast variations in women who have neither signs nor symptoms of breast cancer. It normally involves 2 X-rays of each breast. Using a mammogram, it is likely to identify a tumour that can’t be felt.
Diagnostic mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to diagnose significant breast changes, such as pain, discharge, nipple thickening or lump, or a change in breast size or form. A diagnostic mammogram is also used to assess irregularities identified on a screening mammogram. It is a piece of basic medical equipment and is appropriate in the workup of breast changes.
What are the reasons for a mammogram?
Mammography may be used both for screening or to make an analysis. Women older than 30 years of age should take up diagnostic mammography if they have signs, like an evident breast thickening, indentation or lump, nipple discharge, retraction, breast pain, or erosive soreness of the nipple.
A mammogram may be used to estimate breast pain when physical testing and history are not certain. Women with breasts that are dense, lumpy, or large may be screened with mammography, as the physical testing may be difficult to perform.
Women who are at great risk for breast cancer or with a history of breast cancer should be routinely screened with the help of mammography.