Breast Cancer Detection, Screening & Diagnosis: How Doctors Find It
Breast cancer detection methods:
- Breast self-exam (BSE): A regular self-exam of the breasts allows individuals to notice any changes or abnormalities, such as lumps or changes in breast shape or size. It's recommended that individuals perform a BSE once a month.
- Clinical breast exam (CBE): Performed by a healthcare professional, typically during a routine physical exam, the breasts are visually checked for abnormalities, and the individual's lymph nodes may be palpated for any swelling.
- Mammogram: A low-dose X-ray of the breasts that can detect breast abnormalities, including masses, calcifications, or architectural distortions. Mammograms are commonly used as a screening tool for individuals over a certain age or those at higher risk of breast cancer.
- Breast ultrasound: Utilizes sound waves to produce images of the breast tissue and is often used as a supplementary tool alongside a mammogram to further investigate suspicious areas or detect dense breast tissue.
- Breast MRI: A magnetic resonance imaging scan that provides detailed images of the breast and is sometimes used for specific purposes such as evaluating high-risk individuals, diagnosing complex cases, or monitoring response to treatment.
- Thermography: A technique that measures heat patterns on the skin's surface, based on the principle that tumors produce more heat than surrounding tissue. It's not widely used as a primary screening method due to limitations and variations in results.
- Blood tests: Certain blood tests, such as tumor markers, may be used in addition to imaging tests to assess the presence and progression of breast cancer, but they are not typically used alone for screening purposes.
Breast cancer screening:
- Screening guidelines vary depending on individual risk factors and may differ between countries and medical organizations.
- The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms starting at age 40 for individuals at average risk.
- Additional screening or early screening may be recommended for those at higher risk, such as those with a strong family history of breast cancer or a personal history of certain conditions or genetic mutations.
- Individuals should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate screening schedule and techniques for their specific situation.