A diagnostic mammogram is an x-ray
of the breast and is recommended when
there is reason to suspect cancer. Because
younger women (generally less than 35
years old) have denser breast tissue, mammography
is less helpful in this situation.
Diagnostic mammography is more
thorough than regular “screening” mammography.
It includes extra compression
to “push” normal breast tissue out of the
way and give a clearer image of the suspicious
area. If tiny flecks of calcium (microcalcifications)
are noticed, magnified
views will be taken since these flecks are
sometimes associated with cancer.
If there is any doubt about what the
mammogram shows, it is recommended
that two individuals experienced in reading
mammograms should interpret the
results. For an accurate diagnosis, a highquality
mammogram is important. To
ensure high quality you should check
that your centre is accredited by the
Canadian Association of Radiologists.
However, even when all the best procedures
are followed, cancer is not always
visible on a mammogram, which means
that a normal result is not absolute proof
that there is no cancer.
EmoticonEmoticon