Mammogram
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It is used to screen for breast cancer and other abnormalities in the breasts.
It can be done using two different types of X-ray machines: film screening mammography and digital mammography.
Film of screening test is the traditional method of taking X-rays of the breasts. In this type of mammogram, an X-ray film is placed behind the breast and an X-ray machine is used to take the X-ray.
Digital mammography is a newer method of taking X-rays of the breasts. In this type of mammogram, an electronic image is produced instead of an X-ray film. The electronic image can be stored, viewed on a computer screen, and even emailed or sent over the internet.
Mammogram Causes
- Dense breast tissue: This is one of the most common causes of mammogram results. Dense breast tissue can make it difficult for doctors to spot problems, such as tumors.
- Breast implants: Breast implants can also make it difficult to read the results. The implant itself does not show up on a film, but the tissue around it can distort the image.
- Scar tissue: Scar tissue from previous surgeries or injuries can also make it difficult to read it.
- Obesity: Obesity can also cause problems with the results. The extra breast tissue can make it difficult to get a clear image.
- Breast density: This is another common cause of improper imaging. Dense breast tissue can make it difficult for doctors to spot problems, such as tumors.
- Cysts: Breast Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast. They are usually benign (not cancerous), but they can make it difficult to read the film or image.
- Fibrocystic breasts: This is a condition that causes the breast tissue to become lumpy and dense. It is not cancer, but it can make it difficult to read the image.
- Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy treatment for other conditions can cause changes in the breast tissue that can make it difficult to read.
- Pregnancy: Breast tissue changes during pregnancy, which is also not good for imaging.
- Menopause: Menopause can also cause changes in the breast tissue that can make it difficult to read a mammogram.
Mammogram Symptoms
- A mass or lump in the breast
- Breast pain
- Nipple discharge or changes in appearance
- Skin changes, such as dimpling or redness
- Inverted nipples
- Swelling of all or part of the breast(s)
Mammogram Risks
- There is a small chance that the mammogram will not be able to detect breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
- There is also a small chance of false-positive results, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety and further testing.
- Mammograms may also cause some discomfort, such as breast tenderness or pain.
- Finally, there is a very small chance that the mammogram itself could cause breast cancer. This is because the X-rays used in the procedure can damage DNA. However, the benefits far outweigh the risks.
Mammogram Problems
- It can be inconclusive, meaning that it’s not always possible to definitively say whether or not a mass is cancerous based on the image alone.
- Abnormal ones may lead to unnecessary anxiety and additional testing, such as a biopsy.
- It may cause discomfort, pain, or bruise in some women.
- There is a small amount of radiation exposure associated with them, which poses a very small risk of cancer.
FAQs
Q.1 I’m under 40. Do I still need a mammogram?
If you’re under 40 and have no breast cancer symptoms, you probably don’t need.
Q.2 Can I get a mammogram if I’m pregnant?
Yes. If you’re pregnant and think you might need a mammogram, ask your doctor about the best way to have one.
Q.3 What should I expect during a mammogram?
A mammogram usually takes about 15 minutes. You’ll stand in front of an X-ray machine, and a technician will place your breast between two plastic plates. The plates will press your breast and flatten it, which might be uncomfortable for a few seconds. The technician will take X-rays of your breast from different angles.
Q.4 Will a mammogram hurt?
You might feel discomfort when your breast is pressed between the plates. But the pressure lasts only a few seconds, and it shouldn’t be painful.
Q.5 Are there any risks from having a mammogram?
Mammograms are very safe. The small amount of radiation you’re exposed to during a mammogram has not been linked to any harmful effects, such as cancer.