Consultation about breast exams
Other than a self-breast exam or one performed by a physician, the X-ray mammography and diagnostic breast ultrasound are good screening tests for early detection of breast cancer. Making sense of these procedures and their results is important in relieving unnecessary anxiety and in making decisions to promote and maintain peace of mind. Your physician will be helpful in answering any questions you may have and in giving you an explanation of not only the ordered procedures but also clarification regarding the findings and their relevance.
Instructions
1. Get a routine diagnostic X-ray mammography done on a scheduled basis according to factors discussed with your physician that may include age, family history and your historical health-related issues. This procedure shows excellent spatial resolution and can identify micro-calcification that could either be insignificant or a sign of breast cancer. The findings in a mammogram are more detailed than an ultrasound. Various size tumors and cysts can be found on mammograms.
2. Ask for a detailed explanation of your mammogram results. If further tests are indicated, the ordering physician should explain and even show you what was found that looked suspicious or inconclusive. If available, make sure comparisons from your previous mammograms are carefully done.
3. Get a breast ultrasound exam if there are questionable findings on the breast X-ray mammogram. The contrast resolution on the breast ultrasound will show better differentiations between normal breast tissue and cysts or sacs of fluid. Lymph nodes with fatty centers and larger areas of calcification can be detected with more success on the diagnostic ultrasound.
4. Ask questions regarding the results of your breast ultrasound. Have the physician explain in detail the findings so that you have a sense of what may be the results--- false-positive, false-negative or inconclusive findings--- should be explained and what other options may be considered.
5. Get the facts about your exams. Be your own advocate when it comes to deciding whether or not to pursue an aggressive diagnostic program. Some doctors may look at your age and family history and decide that additional tests are not needed. Always be respectful of their opinion, but do not follow their advice if it does not set well with you. A second opinion about the tests that you have had are an option where your tests can be reviewed by a different radiologist or expert.
Tags: breast ultrasound, breast cancer, family history, that have, X-ray mammography
