Prof. Dr. Rahmi Çubuk

Breast Diseases

Breast Diseases

What is Breast Imaging ?

 

Breast imaging refers to the use of medical imaging techniques to diagnose breast diseases. The primary purpose of breast imaging is to detect conditions like breast cancer, benign lumps, and other abnormalities in the breast tissue. There are three main radiological methods used for breast imaging:

Radiological Methods for Breast Imaging:

  1. Digital Mammography (Including Tomosynthesis):
    • Mammography is the standard screening method for breast cancer. With tomosynthesis (also known as 3D mammography), detailed, layered images of the breast tissue are obtained, improving the ability to detect abnormalities, particularly in dense breast tissue.
  2. Ultrasound:
    • Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue. It is often used to evaluate specific areas that appear suspicious on a mammogram or to further investigate lumps, cysts, or other abnormalities in the breast. It is particularly useful for younger women with dense breast tissue.
  3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
    • MRI of the breast is a highly detailed imaging technique used when further investigation is needed, particularly in women at high risk for breast cancer or when mammography and ultrasound results are inconclusive. It can identify small tumors that may not be visible through other methods.

Purpose of Breast Imaging:

Breast imaging is used for two primary purposes:

  1. Breast Cancer Screening:
    • Mammography is the gold standard for breast cancer screening, particularly for women aged 40 and older. The goal is to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms appear, and to ensure early and effective treatment. In some cases, ultrasound may be used in addition to mammography, particularly in women with dense breast tissue, to improve detection rates.
  2. Evaluation of Symptoms or Abnormal Findings:
    • When women experience symptoms like pain, swelling, redness, or nipple discharge, or if an abnormal finding is detected during a physical examination or self-examination, breast imaging is used to determine the cause. If any irregularities are found, further imaging helps in diagnosing the condition, whether it’s cancer, a benign lump, or another issue.

In summary, breast imaging plays a crucial role in both the early detection of breast cancer and the evaluation of symptoms. Various imaging techniques are chosen based on the individual’s age, symptoms, risk factors, and the results of previous tests.