Diagnostic imaging refers to methods that take pictures (images) of what is happening inside the breasts. The purpose of diagnostic imaging is to investigate breast abnormalities and determine the cause of symptoms you may be experiencing.
The two most common imaging methods are diagnostic mammography and breast ultrasound.
Diagnostic mammogram
A diagnostic mammogram works like a screening mammogram. It is a low-dose X-ray of the breast that is taken to get a better picture of any breast changes noticed on a screening mammogram, during a clinical breast examination or by a woman being breast aware.
A diagnostic mammogram may take longer than a screening mammogram, because the technologist may take more X-rays and may magnify certain areas of the breast to get a better picture.
Breast ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to get a picture of the breast. If you have a breast lump, ultrasound can be used to find out if the lump is a solid tumour or a fluid-filled cyst. Ultrasound can be used to see lumps that are not clear on a mammogram and is sometimes used as a way of visually guiding a health care provider during other procedures, such as a biopsy.
During an ultrasound, a gel is spread on your skin in the area being examined, and a small hand-held instrument is passed over the area. The device sends out sound waves, and the reflected sound waves form a picture that appears on the ultrasound’s screen.
Other imaging techniques
There are other imaging methods that may be used to investigate breast changes and diagnose 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 health care provider about how to prepare and what to expect during the procedure.
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