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LAB TEST & PROCEDURES
Title : Mammogram
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| Description :
A mammogram is an x-ray image of the inner breast tissue. Mammography can be used to identify cysts, calcification and tumours within the breast. Currently mammography is the most effective way to detect breast cancer as it can detect small cancers at the curable stage. However one must remember that this is not a foolproof method.
Mammography is used to detect two main abnormalities; namely calcifications and masses. Calcifications are tiny mineral deposits within the breast tissue that appear as small white spots on the films. A mass is any group of cells clustered together more densely than the surrounding tissue. A cysts or fluid collection may also appear as a mass on a mammogram. An ultrasound can differentiate between a solid mass and a cyst.
The American Cancer Society recommends that a baseline mammogram be done at ages between 35 to 40. Between ages 40 to 50, a mammogram should be done on every two years. After age 50, a mammogram should be performed yearly. Women with high risks should consider getting mammograms earlier.
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Procedure:
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| The patient's breast is pressed against a firm x-ray surface. The breast is squeezed between two plates for a few seconds while pictures are taken. This may cause some discomfort to patients but the overall process is painless. The compression is important in obtaining quality mammograms. Generally, two x-rays are obtained from each breast, but special magnified or localised mammograms can also be done. |
Risks
The risk involved in this procedure is fairly low, as the radiation level is exceptionally low. Radiation does affect unborn fetus and therefore pregnant patients should discuss this with their doctors. |
Abnormal mammogram
An abnormal mammogram does not mean that one has cancer. Majority of abnormal mammograms is indicative of benign conditions or thicker breast tissue. If spot is suspicious, then further mammograms may be done on that particular area or an ultrasound is advised or a biopsy is done on the area.
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