Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It is used to screen for breast cancer and other abnormalities in the breasts.

It can be done using two different types of X-ray machines: film screening mammography and digital mammography.

Film of screening test is the traditional method of taking X-rays of the breasts. In this type of mammogram, an X-ray film is placed behind the breast and an X-ray machine is used to take the X-ray.

Digital mammography is a newer method of taking X-rays of the breasts. In this type of mammogram, an electronic image is produced instead of an X-ray film. The electronic image can be stored, viewed on a computer screen, and even emailed or sent over the internet.

Causes

Dense breast tissue – This is one of the most common causes of mammogram results. Dense breast tissue can make it difficult for doctors to spot problems, such as tumors.
Breast implants – Breast implants can also make it difficult to read the results. The implant itself does not show up on a film, but the tissue around it can distort the image.
Scar tissue – Scar tissue from previous surgeries or injuries can also make it difficult to read it.
Obesity – Obesity can also cause problems with the results. The extra breast tissue can make it difficult to get a clear image.
Breast density – This is another common cause of improper imaging. Dense breast tissue can make it difficult for doctors to spot problems, such as tumors.
Cysts – Breast Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast. They are usually benign (not cancerous), but they can make it difficult to read the film or image.
Fibrocystic breasts – This is a condition that causes the breast tissue to become lumpy and dense. It is not cancer, but it can make it difficult to read the image.
Radiotherapy – Radiotherapy treatment for other conditions can cause changes in the breast tissue that can make it difficult to read.
Pregnancy – Breast tissue changes during pregnancy, which is also not good for imaging.
Menopause – Menopause can also cause changes in the breast tissue that can make it difficult to read a mammogram.

Symptoms

A mass or lump in the breast
Breast pain
Nipple discharge or changes in appearance
Skin changes, such as dimpling or redness
Inverted nipples
Swelling of all or part of the breast(s)

Risks

There is a small chance that the mammogram will not be able to detect breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
There is also a small chance of false-positive results, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety and further testing.
Mammograms may also cause some discomfort, such as breast tenderness or pain.
Finally, there is a very small chance that the mammogram itself could cause breast cancer. This is because the X-rays used in the procedure can damage DNA. However, the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Problems

It can be inconclusive, meaning that it’s not always possible to definitively say whether or not a mass is cancerous based on the image alone.
Abnormal ones may lead to unnecessary anxiety and additional testing, such as a biopsy.
It may cause discomfort, pain, or bruise in some women.
There is a small amount of radiation exposure associated with them, which poses a very small risk of cancer.

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FAQs

I’m under 40. Do I still need a mammogram?

If you’re under 40 and have no breast cancer symptoms, you probably don’t need.

Can I get a mammogram if I’m pregnant?

Yes. If you’re pregnant and think you might need a mammogram, ask your doctor about the best way to have one.

What should I expect during a mammogram?

A mammogram usually takes about 15 minutes. You’ll stand in front of an X-ray machine, and a technician will place your breast between two plastic plates. The plates will press your breast and flatten it, which might be uncomfortable for a few seconds. The technician will take X-rays of your breast from different angles.

Will a mammogram hurt?

You might feel discomfort when your breast is pressed between the plates. But the pressure lasts only a few seconds, and it shouldn’t be painful.

Are there any risks from having a mammogram?

Mammograms are very safe. The small amount of radiation you’re exposed to during a mammogram has not been linked to any harmful effects, such as cancer.