The National Cancer Institute recommends that all women over the age of 40 should take an annual mammogram.
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breasts to find tumors or signs of breast cancer.
The radiologists examines the symmetry of the breasts and compares any changes after an interval of time. That is why it is important to take annual exams.
However, mammogram technology has not reached the point where one exam is guaranteed to show clear results. Often, cysts and masses in the images are unclear and hard to determine due to the composition of breats. If a patient is highly suspected of cancer, she will be recommended to do a biopsy, which is the only sure way to determine if tumors or cysts are cancerous.
- to diagnose breast cancer -cysts, masses, or other abnormalities that can be seen in images
The patient will be asked a series of questions concerning her family and personal history.
The patient will stand behind a machine and a female technician will guide her through the exam. Some patients report that the exam is uncomfortable, but that is typical of any mammography procedure.
Sometimes breast ultrasounds are taken along with mammograms.
Preparation
Any previous mammograms or breast ultrasounds taken are necessary for comparison purposes, so bring the reports and films if you have a copy or call the doctor to fax them over.
Please stay after completing the exam to receive results from the radiologist.
All normal activities may resume. Please see your doctor 3-5 days after for detailed results.