Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Breast Ultrasound
  • Breast MRI
  • Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI)
  • Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)

Beyond Mammograms: Exploring Additional Breast Cancer Screening Methods

Beyond Mammograms: Exploring Additional Breast Cancer Screening Methods

Expanding the Toolbox

While mammograms are the gold standard for breast cancer screening, they're not perfect - especially for women with dense breasts or high risk. Understanding additional screening options can help ensure more accurate and comprehensive breast health monitoring.
Contents
  • Breast Ultrasound
  • Breast MRI
  • Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI)
  • Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)

Breast Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue. It's often used as a follow-up to mammograms or for women with dense breasts. Ultrasound can distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, which mammograms can't always do. It's painless and doesn't use radiation, but may miss some cancers that mammograms can detect.

Breast MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed 3D images of breast tissue. It's the most sensitive test for breast cancer, capable of detecting tiny tumors mammograms might miss. MRI is recommended as an additional screening tool for high-risk women. However, it's expensive, time-consuming, and can lead to more false positives and unnecessary biopsies.
Exploring additional breast cancer screening methods such as ultrasound and MRI to complement mammograms for women with dense breasts or high risk.

Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI)

MBI, also called breast-specific gamma imaging, uses a radioactive tracer that concentrates in cancer cells. It can detect tumors in dense breast tissue that mammograms might miss. MBI is being studied as a supplemental screening tool for women with dense breasts. While promising, it's not yet widely available and involves a small radiation dose.

Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)

A CBE is a physical examination of the breasts by a healthcare provider. While not a replacement for imaging tests, it can sometimes detect lumps or changes that prompt further investigation. Some guidelines no longer recommend routine CBEs due to lack of evidence for reducing mortality, but they remain an important part of overall breast health monitoring.

FAQs

Can these tests replace mammograms?

No, they're typically used as supplements to mammography.

Are these tests covered by insurance?

Coverage varies; MRI is often covered for high-risk women.

How often should additional screening be done?

Frequency depends on your risk level and specific test.

Are these tests safe during pregnancy?

Ultrasound is safe; MRI and MBI are generally avoided.

Do I need a referral for these tests?

Usually yes, especially for MRI and MBI.

Key Takeaways

While mammograms remain the cornerstone of breast cancer screening, additional tools can provide valuable supplemental information for certain women.
Wondering if additional screening methods are right for you? Consult with Doctronic to explore your options.
Additional References
  1. Berg WA, et al. JAMA. 2012;307(13):1394-1404.
  2. Saslow D, et al. CA Cancer J Clin. 2007;57(2):75-89.
  3. Rhodes DJ, et al. Radiology. 2015;274(2):365-371.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.