Mammograms are one of the best tools you can use to stay on top of your breast health. A mammogram is one of the most effective tests for catching breast cancer early.
A mammogram is performed with an X-ray machine that compresses the breast to take an image. This machine can be used for two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic.
Who should get a mammogram?
Most women will get their first screening mammogram at age 40 during a recommended annual check-up. Anyone with the following risk factors should see a doctor and schedule a screening before then:
- A family history of breast cancer
- A genetic predisposition such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations
- Other benign breast conditions
- A history of breast radiation
- A history of medical conditions including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Cowen syndrome, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome
High-risk patients should be scheduled for a screening mammogram, unless they are experiencing a new breast symptom.
What is a screening mammogram?
A screening mammogram is used during annual check-ups. It provides your doctors with a broad understanding of what your breast tissue looks like and whether there are any abnormalities. For those who are coming in for the first time, this device will be ordered to establish a baseline.
In the case of a screening mammogram, each breast will receive a 3D top-to-bottom and side-to side profiles which will look for:
- Calcifications: a buildup of calcium that forms a dense material
- Masses or lumps: abnormal solid or fluid-filled breast tissue
- Breast asymmetry: change in breast size, shape or position
- Breast density: the amount of breast tissue which can vary from mostly fat to extremely dense tissue.
Once the screening is complete, you will receive results in a BIRADS classification (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System), a standardized system used to classify breast imaging findings. In other higher risk cases, or due to family history or breast density, a screening mammogram may be paired with a supplemental Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or an ultrasound for a more detailed view of the breast.
What is a diagnostic mammogram?
A diagnostic mammogram is a secondary tool used to capture a more comprehensive view of the breast tissue with multiple pictures. This kind of mammogram could be a follow-up on any abnormalities that may have been detected during a screening mammogram. It can also be performed if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Breast or nipple pain
- New lump or mass
- Swelling of the breast
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Skin changes, including redness and flaking
- Change in nipple direction (has turned inward)
- Nipple discharge if not breastfeeding
This tool gives a more detailed look, focusing on just the area where you may be experiencing symptoms or abnormalities rather than a broader view of the whole breast. This may require more time than a screening. Diagnostic mammograms may be ordered for additional imaging after a screening mammogram for anyone with breast implants due to difficulty seeing the breast tissue around the implant.
If your doctor sees an abnormality on your screening mammogram, you may be asked to return for a diagnostic mammogram.
Results from a diagnostic mammogram can either show that the abnormality is benign or may require you to come back for additional testing, such as a biopsy, to learn more.
Learn more about whether you should get a mammogram.
As a reminder, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have not received the recommended annual testing, please be sure to consult your doctor for more information on how to stay on top of your breast health.