Breast tests range from routine, noninvasive procedures to more serious procedures conducted if cancer or other abnormalities are detected through routine exams.

Physical Exams

Physical exams include self-exams and clinical exams conducted by a doctor or nurse as part of a regular checkup. Physical exams can be effective in detecting lumps and other changes in the skin or tissue of the breast.

Mammography

Along with a monthly breast self-exam and a regular clinical breast exam, screening mammograms are a critical component of proper breast care. Using a low-dose x-ray, mammograms can detect lumps much earlier than they can be detected with a physical exam. Abnormalities identified by a mammogram require further testing to determine the nature of the issue and whether or not treatment is needed.

Diagnostic mammograms may be conducted if a screening mammogram detects an abnormality. Diagnostic mammograms use the same basic technique as screening mammograms; however, during a diagnostic mammogram, the technician will take more images at different angles and may target certain areas of the breast for further imaging.

Breast Ultrasound or MRI

An ultrasound uses sound waves to produce an image of tissue inside the breast. It can be used to determine whether a breast abnormality is a solid mass, indicating a possible tumor, or a fluid-filled mass, such as a cyst. Ultrasound can also be used to guide a
physician conducting a biopsy to get a sample of breast tissue.

An MRI uses a magnet and radio waves to generate images of the inside of the breast. MRI testing is sometimes used in conjunction with mammography to provide more detailed images.

Biopsy

During a biopsy, a sample of tissue is removed for laboratory testing. The lab will analyze the type of cells to see if they are cancerous. If cancerous cells are detected, the lab will then conduct further testing to aid the doctor in determining the appropriate treatment.