Mammography

Mammography is a specialized medical imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to detect abnormalities in the breast, most notably breast cancer. It plays a critical role in early detection, improving the chances of successful treatment and survival.

🎯 Purpose

• Screening mammography: For women without symptoms to detect cancer early.
   
• Diagnostic mammography: For investigating symptoms like a lump, pain, nipple discharge, or changes seen on a screening mammogram.
   

• Masses or lumps
   
• Calcifications
   
• Architectural distortion
   
• Asymmetries between breasts
   

• Ages 40–49: Discuss with doctor; decision based on personal risk.
   
• Ages 50–74: Every 1–2 years.
   
• High-risk women (e.g., family history, BRCA mutation): Start earlier and may need MRI + mammogram.
   

Ultrasound (USG) of the Breast is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the internal structures of the breast. It is often used in combination with mammography to further evaluate abnormalities or for screening in specific cases (e.g., young women or those with dense breast tissue).

 

FindingUSG AppearanceClinical SignificanceSimple cystsAnechoic (black), well-defined, no solid partsUsually benignSolid massesMay be hypoechoic, irregular, with shadowingCan be benign or malignant (needs biopsy)FibroadenomasOval, smooth, homogeneousCommon benign tumorsAbscess/infectionComplex fluid collection with debrisNeeds drainage or antibioticsMalignancyIrregular shape, spiculated margins, shadowingSuspicious – biopsy recommendedLymph nodesIn axilla or breast; size/shape mattersEvaluated for spread of cancer  

Ultrasound (USG)-Guided Biopsy of the breast is a minimally invasive procedure used to sample abnormal breast tissue seen on ultrasound. It’s a highly accurate and commonly used method for diagnosing breast cancer or benign lesions.

It’s a procedure where a needle is precisely guided by ultrasound imaging into a suspicious area of the breast to remove small samples of tissue for pathological examination.

USG-guided biopsy is usually performed when:

• A mass or lesion is detected on breast ultrasound
   
• An abnormal mammogram leads to an ultrasound-visible finding
   
• There's a palpable lump confirmed on USG
   
• To biopsy abnormal lymph nodes in the axilla (underarm) 

PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography) in Breast Cancer

A PET scan is a nuclear imaging technique that helps visualize metabolic activity in the body using a small amount of radioactive material. In breast cancer, it plays a crucial role in staging, detecting recurrence, and monitoring treatment response—especially when other imaging results are inconclusive.