Digital Mammography

Please note that independent interpretation of the results is not permitted; the information below is provided for informational purposes only.

Digital mammography is an X-ray imaging method used to examine the breasts and detect breast abnormalities, including certain masses or microcalcifications that may not be detectable through clinical examination or other imaging methods. The examination may be performed both for screening purposes and to evaluate symptoms or previously identified abnormalities.

Indications

• screening for the early detection of breast cancer, according to medical recommendations and age group;
• evaluation of abnormalities detected during a clinical examination or through other imaging investigations;
• presence of a lump or mass in the breast;
• persistent breast pain or discomfort;
• changes in the shape or size of the breast;
• changes in the skin or nipple;
• nipple discharge, particularly spontaneous or bloody discharge;
• nipple retraction or other recent changes in the nipple;
• monitoring of known breast abnormalities;
• breast evaluation after surgical procedures, as recommended by the physician;
• other indications determined by the physician.

Procedure

The examination is performed by obtaining X-ray images of the breasts in standard views. During the examination, the breast is positioned and compressed to obtain high-quality images and reduce tissue overlap. The images are analyzed by a radiologist, and the findings are documented in an examination report.

Limitations

• the sensitivity of mammography may be affected by breast tissue density;
• some abnormalities may require additional imaging examinations, such as breast ultrasound or other methods recommended by the physician;
• mammography does not always allow the nature of a mass to be determined with certainty;
• the results should be interpreted in the context of the patient’s age, medical history, symptoms, and other investigations;
• in certain cases, follow-up monitoring or additional investigations may be recommended.

Contraindications

• pregnancy or suspected pregnancy, except when the examination is considered necessary by the physician;
• other clinical situations in which exposure to ionizing radiation should be avoided or postponed;
• inability to maintain the required position during the examination;
• other individual circumstances determined by the physician.

Advantages

• widely used imaging method for breast cancer screening and evaluation of breast abnormalities;
• allows detection of small abnormalities, including microcalcifications;
• provides digital images that can be analyzed and compared over time;
• may contribute to the early detection of suspicious abnormalities;
• allows both breasts to be examined and compared;
• short examination time.

Sources:

https://www.breastcancer.org/screening-testing/mammograms/types
https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/mammo
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/15939-digital-breast-tomosynthesis-and-breast-cancer-screening
https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/mammography-information-patients/frequently-asked-questions-about-digital-mammography
https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/digital-mammograms-a-clearer-picture
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/3d-mammogram/about/pac-20438708
https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-tests/m/mammogram/digital-mammography.html
 

IMPORTANT!
It is very important to remember that the information in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you experience pain or worsening of the condition, you should consult a physician for diagnostic investigations. Only a qualified specialist can make a correct diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent assessment of test results, it is recommended to perform them in the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use different methods and measurement units for similar investigations.