The importance of Mammograms and what these scans can discover

You have undoubtedly heard of somebody going in for their mammogram, a test that utilizes x-rays for imaging of the breast(s) to be analyzed by a radiologist. Whether you need a mammogram to check for a new problem or if you are going in for your regularly scheduled breast cancer screening, imaging can find numerous processes in your breast which are benign or normal.

Women in the Sierra Vista, Arizona area seeking to have a mammogram done can place their trust in the team at Southern Arizona Radiology Associates. When you visit us, you can be assured that we will properly and accurately perform your scan to diagnose any existing issues.

What are we looking for?

Mammograms are performed to identify problem areas in the breast. When this scan is performed, it will be done so as to take multiple views of the breast at specific angles to evaluate the architecture, composition, and symmetry of the breasts. Mammography utilizes static imaging, think of like a single photograph, as well as breast tomosynthesis – a 3D picture of the breast tissue which can be thought of as a series of pictures like a mini movie. 

We will initially be looking for any signs of existing or developing cancer. During inspection of the scans, it is possible that other abnormalities may be discovered, which might require additional testing and examination. Some frequently encountered findings during mammography and breast ultrasound include: 

• Calcifications: When small pieces of calcium gather within the breast’s soft tissue, this is called calcification. These calcifications are often very small and cannot be felt, which is what makes mammograms so useful as they can point to early signs of breast cancer. Calcifications are frequently benign, but certain calcifications can require additional testing.

• Cysts: A cyst is a mass that is filled with fluid. Cysts can be found in many places throughout the body, including the breasts. Cysts are very common. With ultrasound, the exact composition of a cyst can be usually determined, and provide diagnosis of a benign cyst, or a cyst that might require additional testing.

• Fibroadenomas: One of the most common masses found in the female breast, fibroadenomas are created when normal cells of the breast begin to form into solid, rounded lumps. These moveable lumps may or may not increase in size, but the important thing to know is that they are not cancerous. Oftentimes fibroadenoma diagnosis is made with mammography and ultrasound alone, but sometimes biopsy is needed when fibroadenomas have an unusual appearance.

The above represent common findings in breast imaging, but only a small fraction of the complicated processes that happen in breast tissue. If you notice any abnormality or lumps in your breast, you need to visit your doctor as soon as you can. While the abnormality could be one of the conditions we have described here, it’s imperative a new abnormality be fully explored through a combination of clinical exam with your primary care doctor, and complete breast imaging diagnostic assessment which may include mammogram, ultrasound, or both.

Schedule an appointment today

If you are looking for a provider you can trust for your breast health, please visit Southern Arizona Radiology Associates in Sierra Vista, Arizona. Whether you need to schedule a routine mammogram or you may have noticed something with your breast that could be a cause for concern, please do not delay. Schedule an appointment with us by dialing (520) 722-8994 today.