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What Are The Types Of Mammography?
1
Film screen mammography
It has become outdated, and Digital mammography replaced it.
2
Digital Mammography
This modern technology involves the enhanced absorption of x-rays. This technique provides high-quality contrast-resolution images.
3
3D Mammography
3D Mammography (alternatively known as breast tomosynthesis) merges the various X-rays to give a detailed structure to the mammography images.
4
MR Mammogram
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a different type of medical imaging test that uses magnetic and radio waves to produce images of the body’s internal organs and tissues. While MRI can be used to evaluate breast tissue, it is not a substitute for mammography. It is typically only used in certain situations, such as when a mammogram is inconclusive or if a patient has dense breast tissue. It is also sometimes used to assess any abnormalities that are detected on a mammogram. It is generally considered a safer option for imaging breast tissue compared to mammography.
5
Sono Mammography
A sono mammography, also known as breast ultrasound, is an imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the breast tissue. Unlike mammography, which uses X-rays to create images, breast ultrasound uses ultrasound waves that are safe for the body and do not expose the patient to radiation. Sono mammography is often used in conjunction with mammography to provide a more detailed picture of the breast tissue and to help identify abnormalities.
What Not To Do For Mammography Test?
Breast implants silicone may disturb the accurate mammogram results. X-rays are not transparent to Silicone implants and can block a clear view of the tissues around them.
Avoid wearing any jewelry as it may interfere with the approaching X-rays.
Risks Associated With Mammography Test
Theoretically speaking, Excessive radiation exposure can cause cancer. However, radiologist makes sure that the lowest amount of radiation is used while producing the best possible image. The latest technology in mammography equipment produces high-quality images with a low dose of radiation. So, the advantages of mammography tests outweigh the risks associated with them.
Limitations of the Mammography Test
Requirement of follow-up tests
If the mammogram results may not satisfy the doctor, then the doctor may suggest further diagnostic tests.
Inability to detect all breast cancer
Mammography cannot detect minute and tiny types of tumours. Sometimes Mammography is difficult to detect small size cancerous masses. But they can help physicians decide whether more testing methods like breast biopsy are needed.
Preparation for Mammogram Test
Mammography Test Results
Test results are usually available within 12 hours. Most diagnostic centres provide results immediately after the scan.
Normal Results
- If the result is normal, make sure you get the test done annually. This helps the doctors compare the image and look for any changes.
- The normal result indicates the absence of abnormal cancerous and non-cancerous lumps in the breast. The White area in the mammograph images represents the healthy tissues.
Abnormal Results
- Abnormal results may require further other tests to confirm the diagnosis. Your doctor will proceed with follow-up exams to look for the presence or absence of cancer.
- The radiologists use the scoring system ‘BI-RADS’ to represent mammography results.
What Do Mammograms Indicate?
Calcifications
The calcification term indicates the accumulation of calcium in the breast tissues. Sometimes the breasts become calcified in women in their late fifties.
Masses
These are the tender, condensed forms of tissue. These are lump-like structures in the breast.
Asymmetries
This is the unequal distribution of the two halves of the breast about an axis.
BI-RADS Score And Its Significance
BI-RADS is the Breast Imaging Reporting and Database System score. The score is categorized from 0 to 6. The score helps your doctor determine the line of treatment and monitor the treatment progress. Follow what your healthcare provider recommends, as early diagnosis can treat your breast cancer.
| SCORES | SIGNIFICANCE |
|---|---|
|
0 |
Incomplete test and requires additional tests. |
|
1 |
A negative result (No cancer) |
|
2 |
Normal results (but the presence of benign cysts) |
|
3 |
Probable normal results (with 2% chance of cancer).
Follow up required |
|
4 |
Abnormal results (20-35% possibility of cancer). 4A-Low suspicion of cancer 4B-Moderate suspicion of cancer 4C-High suspicion of cancer |
|
5 |
The abnormal result (95% chance of breast cancer). |
|
6 |
After a biopsy of breast cancer is confirmed. |
Contact us. We will be happy to help you.
Mammography is an X-ray imaging technique that provides an internal image of the breasts.