Description:
Mammography is an imaging technique used for the early detection of breast cancer and the examination of breast tissue. It uses X-rays to create detailed images of the breast, known as mammograms. These images help doctors detect changes or abnormalities in breast tissue that may indicate breast cancer or other benign conditions. Mammography is considered one of the most reliable methods for early detection of breast cancer and is used for both screening and diagnostic purposes.
Indications:
- Routine Breast Cancer Screening: Women aged 40 to 50 and older, depending on national guidelines and individual risk factors, should have regular mammograms for early breast cancer detection.
- Diagnostic Mammography: This is performed for women who have symptoms such as a lump in the breast, pain, skin changes, or nipple discharge to further investigate the cause of these symptoms.
- Monitoring After Breast Cancer Treatment: Women who have had breast cancer may need more frequent mammograms to detect any recurrence of the disease early.
- Evaluation of Breast Implants: Mammography can also be used to assess the integrity of breast implants and detect any leaks or ruptures.
Procedure:
- Preparation: Before a mammogram, the patient should remove any metallic objects from the upper body, as these can interfere with the X-ray images. It is advisable not to apply deodorants, lotions, or perfumes on the breast or underarms on the day of the exam, as residues may appear on the images.
- Procedure:
- Positioning: The patient stands in front of the mammography machine, and one breast is placed at a time on a flat plate. A second plate lowers to gently compress the breast. This compression is necessary to flatten the breast tissue and obtain clear, detailed images.
- X-ray Images: While the breast is compressed, X-ray images are taken from different angles. The process is repeated for the other breast. Typically, two images per breast are taken: one from top to bottom (craniocaudal view) and one from the side (mediolateral oblique view).
- Duration: The entire examination usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. The compression of the breast can be uncomfortable but is brief and necessary for accurate results.
- Analysis: The mammograms are analyzed by a radiologist who looks for signs of abnormalities such as masses, calcifications, or structural changes that could indicate breast cancer or other conditions. If suspicious findings are noted, further imaging tests, such as ultrasound or a biopsy, may be necessary.
- Aftercare: If the mammography results are normal, annual or biennial screening is typically recommended based on national guidelines and the patient’s risk profile. If abnormal findings are present, additional tests or closer monitoring may be required.
Benefits:
- Early Detection of Breast Cancer: Mammography can detect breast cancer at an early stage, before symptoms appear, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
- Reduction in Breast Cancer Mortality: Regular mammography screenings have been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality rates in certain age groups and risk categories.
- Detection of Benign Breast Changes: In addition to cancer, mammography can also identify benign changes such as cysts or fibroadenomas, which may require further evaluation or monitoring.
- Reliability and Accuracy: Mammography is considered one of the most reliable methods for examining the breast and has a high accuracy rate in detecting breast cancer.