Mammography is a critical tool in the fight against breast cancer. There are two types of mammograms:
Screening Mammography: Usually involving two x-ray images of each breast, the screening mammography is used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. Screening mammography can find micro calcifications (tiny deposits of calcium) that may indicate the presence of early breast cancer.
Diagnostic Mammography: A diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a palpable lump in the breast or changes found during a screening mammogram.
| What are the symptoms of breast cancer? PainSkin ThickeningNipple DischargeChange in Breast Size or Shape However, these signs may also be indicators of benign conditions. This is why diagnostic mammography becomes so important.Digital Mammography Digital Mammography is superior to conventional mammography because the images are stored electronically, as opposed to on films. This allows the digital information to be enhanced, magnified, or manipulated for further evaluation. As a result, digital mammography may offer the following advantages over conventional mammography:-Subtle differences between normal and abnormal tissues may be more easily noted. -Fewer repeat images may be needed, reducing the exposure to radiation.-Health care providers can share image files electronically, making long distance consultations between radiologists and breast surgeons easier. DON’T PUT OFF YOUR MAMMOGRAPHY. IT CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE! |