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DIAGNOSIS > Imaging
IMAGING
Imaging refers to ways of taking pictures of what is happening in the breast. The purpose of diagnostic imaging is to determine the cause of the symptoms a person is experiencing. The two most commonly used imaging methods are diagnostic mammograms and breast ultrasound.
Diagnostic mammogram
A diagnostic mammogram works similarly to a screening mammogram. It is a low-radiation x-ray of the breast taken to get a better picture of a breast change noticed on a screening mammogram, during a clinical breast examination or by a person themself.
The procedure for a diagnostic mammogram may require more time than for a screening mammogram. This is because the technologist may be taking more x-rays and may be magnifying certain areas of the breast to get a better picture.
Breast ultrasound
Ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses sound waves to get a picture of the breast. If you have a breast lump, ultrasound can be used to find out if a lump is a solid tumour or a fluid-filled cyst. It can be used to see lumps that are not clear on a mammogram. Ultrasound is sometimes used as a way of visually guiding your doctor during other procedures, such as a biopsy.
During an ultrasound, a gel is spread on the skin and a small hand-held instrument is passed over the area. The device sends out sound waves, and the reflected sound waves are used to form the picture that appears on a screen.
Other imaging techniques
There are other imaging methods that may be used to investigate possible breast cancer, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the breast.
If you are referred for any type of diagnostic imaging, ask your doctor about how to prepare and what to expect during the procedure.
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