Table of Contents
- Overview
- Results
- Risks
- Prevention
- Images
Mammogram
Normal Values
Breast tissue that shows no signs of a mass or
What abnormal results mean
Most abnormal findings on a screening mammogram turn out to be benign or nothing to worry about. However, any new findings or changes must be further evaluated.
A radiology doctor may see the following types of findings on a mammogram:
- A well-outlined, regular, clear spot (this is more likely to be a noncancerous condition such as a cyst)
- Masses or lumps
- Dense areas in the breast that can be breast cancer or hide breast cancer
- Calcifications, which are caused by tiny deposits of calcium in your breast tissue. Most calcifications are not a sign of cancer. See:
Mammogram - calcifications for more information.
The American College of Radiology (ACR) has developed a grading system for radiology doctors to use when they report the results of a mammogram. Terms you may hear your doctor use include:
- Negative
- Benign (noncancerous) finding
- Probably benign
- Suspicious abnormality
- Highly suggestive of malignancy or cancer
Often, the following tests are also needed:
- Additional mammogram views -- called magnification or compression views
Breast MRI exam - Compare your current mammogram to your past mammograms. This will help tell whether you had an abnormal finding in the past, and whether it has changed.
- Sometimes, the doctor will use ultrasound to further examine your breast and determine the next best step
When mammogram or ultrasound results look suspicious, a biopsy is done to test the tissue and see if it is cancerous. See also:
Breast biopsy - stereotactic Breast biopsy - ultrasound
Images
Previous Section
Review Date: 12/28/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of
General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington
School of Medicine; Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow
Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed
by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
