A breast biopsy is the only way to give a complete diagnosis of breast cancer. A biopsy is done through a needle or surgically, depending on the mass. The doctor will take samples of cell and/or tissue to send to a pathologist to determine if cancer is present. This type of procedure isn't done unless the physician and patient feel there is a reason for it.
Examination
Breast self examination (BSE) and clinical breast examination (CBE) are both used as screening tools for problems in the breast. If a woman feels a lump or an unusual thickening in the breast, it is best to get it checked by a health professional. If the doctor feels that the change in the breast is suspicious, a breast biopsy may be suggested to investigate the area further.
Mammography
The American Cancer Society recommends that all women begin getting yearly mammograms at age 40 (sooner if there is a family history of the disease). A mammogram can identify abnormalities before they are felt by patient or physician. A radiologist will go over the mammogram and check the abnormalities, issuing a report to the doctor. A suspicious finding in a mammogram may lead to a breast biopsy.
Sonogram
An ultrasound (sonogram) is often done in conjunction with a mammogram or to further investigate its findings. The sonogram can give a slightly different picture of the breast and identify cysts, which are and fluid-filled. If a suspicious area cannot be identified as a benign cyst, a breast biopsy is a possible next step in identifying the problem.
MRI
An MRI is a used as an additional tool of identifying potential breast cancer, especially in high risk patients and those who have already had breast cancer surgery. A MRI can locate many small tumors that are not found on a mammogram. An MRI can also show enlarged lymph nodes, a possible indication of cancer. MRI findings may lead to a breast cancer. In addition, MRIs are also used during biopsy to help guide the doctor to the area in question.
Symptoms
A breast biopsy may be suggested if there are obvious symptoms in the breast which could indicate cancer. These include: unusual discharge; changes in the nipple; dimpling of the skin; or crusting/scaling on the breast. A very red or swollen breast can also indicate the presence of inflammatory breast cancer, a rare but deadly form of the disease that moves aggressively and needs to be biopsied and identified quickly.
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