Author Name: Dr. Aditi Agarwal (M.S. General Surgeon), F.M.A.S., F.I.A.C.R.S.I., P.G.D.M.C.H., F.I.A.G.E.S. Breast Colorectal & Laparoscopic Surg.

Everything Need To Know About Mammogram

Breast cancer is the 2nd most common cancer among females. With the increasing awareness of breast cancer, the number of mammograms conducted has also increased. Once a mammogram is done, anxiety is on a rise due to anticipation & interpretation of the results.

INTERPRETATION OF A MAMMOGRAM

NORMAL: If your mammogram report reads normal; your doctor may recommend that you return after a year for a follow up. Meanwhile you should continue self-breast examination monthly. If you notice any new swelling, new disfigurement/asymmetry or nipple discharge, you should report immediately.

ABNORMAL: Whenever there is a suspicious area detected on a mammogram, it is labeled as abnormal. There are 3 possibilities associated with this:

False alarm - There is suspicious so a close follow-up, monthly or 3 monthly, is advised
Close follow up Lesion is suspicious so a close follow-up, monthly or 3 monthly, is advised
Biopsy - needs to be done

Breast biopsy could be done on the same day or within a week’s time. It is done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. It is done with a tru-cut biopsy needle or a core biopsy needle.

In case of small lumps, excision biopsy is needed and for non-palpable, breast pumps guide wire localization is done. Reports usually arrive within 5 to 7 days. It is normal for a person to be anxious during this period. It would be a good idea to share your concerns with your doctor or a close friend/relative.