Diagnostic mammography is a more detailed X-ray used to examine abnormal growths in the breast, typically done if an abnormality is found on a routine mammogram. It helps identify different types of lumps or growths, but most breast abnormalities are benign. Masses often require a biopsy to determine if the mass is a cyst. Diagnostic mammography is generally not required as part of a regular breast exam.
Diagnostic mammography is a series of X-rays used to confirm and examine the presence of abnormal growths in the breast. More detailed than a routinely scanned mammogram, diagnostic mammography is usually done only if an abnormality is found on a routine exam. While diagnostic mammography can be somewhat scary for women, it’s important to remember that most breast abnormalities are benign growths that don’t indicate cancer or other health conditions.
In a typical screened mammogram, two x-rays of each breast are taken. This allows doctors to get a general view of the internal structure of the breast and see if any growths are easily visible. Many women are screened once a year as part of their general health exams. Diagnostic mammography can be considered a second step in the exam process, used if a possible abnormality is found during the regular exam. In this test, additional x-rays are taken, which provide more specific results and a closer look at potential problem areas.
Diagnostic mammography can help doctors identify different types of lumps or growths in the breast. Typically, doctors look for signs of calcification or masses. Calcification is an unusual group of calcium deposits in the breast, which in some cases can be an indication of cancer. Lumps are lumps in the breast that may also be visible or touchable and may also indicate cancer. Even if a lump or calcification is discovered, it’s important not to panic; many are benign in nature and do not guarantee breast cancer.
Masses often require a biopsy to determine if the mass is a cyst. Cysts are usually benign, fluid-filled sacs that sometimes form in the breast and can look like cancerous masses. Some signs on diagnostic mammography can indicate whether a lump is a cyst or a mass, but more tests are almost always needed to get an accurate diagnosis. In addition to needle biopsies, ultrasound is sometimes used to distinguish a solid mass from a cyst.
Although diagnostic mammography is often needed to make a clear diagnosis of abnormalities, it is generally not required as part of a regular breast exam. Some doctors recommend that women with a family history of cancer, previous cancer, or unusual hormone patterns have this procedure more often. For most women, diagnostic mammography is recommended only if they experience symptoms such as breast pain or discharge, lumps, or extreme changes in the shape or size of the breasts.
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