Breast Examination Procedure

Breast examination consists of visualization and palpation, and palpation is performed according to outer upper → outer lower → inner lower → inner upper → nipple examination. The first is visualization, which involves observing whether the shape and size of the breasts are symmetrical, whether there are any limited bulges or depressions, and whether there are any abnormal changes in the skin. Both sides should be compared. Next is palpation, using the palm of the hand for palpation, according to the outer upper → outer lower → inner lower → inner upper → nipple, from shallow to deep, rotating and sliding palpation, in order to touch the ribs without causing pain, pay attention to the presence of redness, swelling, heat and pain and lumps, gently twisting the surface of the skin when touching the lumps, to make clear the adhesion between the lumps and the skin or not. (If there is adhesion without inflammation, it is necessary to be alert to breast cancer.) Next, check the nipple and areola. Use thumb and forefinger to press both sides of the nipple gently and symmetrically, pay attention to whether there are hard nodules and secretions. Normal menstrual period may occasionally have nipple overflow, if found overflow, need to consult a doctor to clarify the cause. Finally, the lymph nodes in the breast should be examined, which are axillary lymph nodes, anterior medial lymph nodes of latissimus dorsi muscle, supraclavicular and infraclavicular lymph nodes. If enlarged lymph nodes are found, attention should be paid to their size, texture, tenderness, fusion, mobility, etc. The patient should cooperate with the doctor during the examination. During the examination, the patient should cooperate with the doctor, and if abnormal masses are detected, complete the imaging examination as prescribed by the doctor, and receive treatment as prescribed by the doctor according to the results of the examination.