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Mammogram
Overview & Description
A mammogram is a type of X-ray for the breasts. A screening mammogram usually involves two X-rays of each breast. A diagnostic mammogram involves more X-rays.
Who is a candidate for the test?
A screening mammogram is generally used to detect breast cancer or other changes in the breast tissue in women who do not have symptoms.
A diagnostic mammogram may be ordered when a screening mammogram shows something abnormal in the breast. It may also be ordered if the woman has symptoms, such as the following:
Breast cancer screening with mammograms has reduced deaths from breast cancer in women 40 to 69 years of age.
How is the test performed?
For a screening mammography, the woman undresses to the waist and puts on a gown that opens from the front. The technologist places one breast on an X-ray film cassette, which resembles a metal shelf. The woman rests her breast on the film cassette. Usually the woman stands during this procedure.
A plastic paddle briefly squeezes the breast from above to flatten it out. This allows a clearer X-ray to be taken. Two views are usually taken of each breast for a screening mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram requires more views and more detail than the screening exam. With modern mammography equipment used specifically for breast X-rays, very low levels of radiation are used.
New techniques are being studied in a search for better diagnosis of breast abnormalities. Examples of these new techniques include the following:
Preparation & Expectations
What is involved in preparation for the test?
It is recommended that a mammogram be scheduled one week after a woman's last period. Women should not wear powder, deodorant, lotion, or perfume under the arms or on the breasts. Wearing a two-piece outfit is suggested. Prior to the exam, all jewelry and metal objects need to be removed.
Results and Values
What do the test results mean?
A mammogram can detect breast cancer, often before a lump can be felt. A mammogram may also show the following conditions:
Attribution
Author:James Compton, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:04/30/01
Reviewer:Melissa Sanders, PharmD
Date Reviewed:08/20/01