How to choose a breast imaging test
1.Breast ultrasound
B-mode ultrasound can show the structure of each layer of the breast and identify whether it is a cyst or a tumor or a microscopic lesion.
Features of breast ultrasound
(1) Economical, simple, non-invasive, painless and repeatable.
(2) Can distinguish between solid lesions and fluid-bearing cysts.
(3) The examination of breast and axillary lymph nodes can be performed simultaneously.
(4) It has advantages for microscopic lesions.
Target group of breast ultrasound
It is suitable for women with dense breast, and is often used to examine young women, especially those who are pregnant and lactating.
2.Mammography
Mammography is the most clinically used adjuvant screening method for breast cancer, and it is currently the most simple, convenient and accurate method for breast disease screening internationally.
Features of mammography
Mammography is performed on a specially designed X-ray machine. The low-dose X-ray can increase the ability to observe the breast parenchyma, which can detect breast cancer at an early stage and combine with clinical examination: the diagnosis rate is high and correct.
(1) Breast cancer has characteristic manifestations: irregular areas of microcalcifications are detected much earlier than clinical examination.
(2) Small tumors without lymphatic metastasis can be detected, and this early detection helps to improve the survival rate.
(3) It can detect tumors of 8mm or even smaller, and distinguish benign and malignant.
(4) It has a small amount of radiation and is not as reproducible as ultrasound, but the combination of the two is better.
When should I have a mammogram?
The first mammogram should be done around the age of 40, and then every 1-2 years between the ages of 50 and 75; if your mother or sister has had breast cancer, please discuss with your doctor when the test should be done.
3.MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a high-tech method of examining the breast with higher resolution for tiny lesions. It can be used for breast cancer staging assessment, determining the extent of ipsilateral breast tumors, and determining whether there are multifocal or multicentric tumors.
(1) It is used to identify benign and malignant tumors with multiple foci.
(2) To evaluate the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy.
(3) The disadvantage is that the examination cost is slightly higher.
4.CT examination
CT examination can be used to locate breast lesions that cannot be palpated before biopsy, to confirm the preoperative staging of breast cancer, to check whether there is enlargement in the posterior region of the breast, axilla and internal such as lymph nodes, and to help formulate treatment plans.
Note: The advantage of CT is to determine the relationship between the mass and the breast and to understand the axillary lymph nodes. The detailed diagnosis of breast masses is not as good as other means.
5.Breast nuclide imaging
It is more sensitive for judging benign and malignant, and can be used for breast cancer screening.
6.How to choose?
(1) Generally, ultrasound is preferred, which is convenient and inexpensive. If you feel doubtful, you can choose mammography.
(2) After breast degeneration, you can choose mammography directly.
(3) If you have good conditions, you can choose breast MRI.