How do I choose to have a mammogram versus an ultrasound?

  The current “golden triad” of breast disease examination is a physical examination by a physician, ultrasound examination of the breast and mammography, and if necessary, MRI, puncture or surgical biopsy.  Ultrasound examination is used to determine the presence or absence of disease by the difference in ultrasound echoes. Ultrasound examination can observe the characteristics of the lump, its shape, identify cystic solidity, the presence of calcification and blood flow. Its use is harmless and can be repeated regularly.  Mammography is a specialized examination of the breast performed by x-ray, which allows observation of asymmetry of the affected breast compared to the opposite side, the shape of the lump, the size type of calcification and distortion of the surrounding structures. It is highly accurate, but has a small amount of radiation and should not be repeated for a short period of time.  Mammogram: Advantages of mammogram: it can accurately show calcifications or burrs, less influenced by the examining physician, and an effective method for early detection of microscopic cancer and carcinoma in situ.  Disadvantages of mammography: It is radioactive, generally suitable for over 35 years old, and easy to miss the diagnosis of tumors at the edge of the breast.  Breast ultrasound: Advantages of breast ultrasound: no radiation, suitable for screening, young people, more advantageous for small breast or marginal tumors, accurate identification of cystic solidity, dynamic follow-up of suspicious lesions, reducing leakage and misdiagnosis.  Disadvantages of breast ultrasound: It is greatly influenced by the examining physician and equipment.  Therefore, for women under 35 years old, they should go to a breast specialist for a physical examination and breast ultrasound once a year; women over 35 years old should have a physical examination and ultrasound once a year, and mammogram once every one and a half to two years. Patients with nodules, masses and other diseases should be reviewed regularly according to the doctor’s requirements.