Breast Cancer Screening

We can help diagnose breast cancer through a number of services including a physical exam, breast cancer screenings, or ultrasound-guided biopsy.

Physical exam

To figure out the cause of any signs or symptoms, a doctor will do a physical exam. This will include asking about your personal and family health history and checking your overall health. The exam may include:

Ductal Lavage

For women at high risk of breast cancer, doctors may use a procedure called ductal lavage. This procedure collects cells from inside the milk ducts, where most breast cancers start.

Nipple Discharge Exam

If there is fluid coming from the nipple, the doctor may collect a sample to send to the lab. This helps check for cancer cells. Most nipple discharge is not cancer; it could be caused by an injury, infection, or a benign (non-cancerous) tumor.

Palpation

The doctor will gently feel for a lump and the tissue around it. They’ll check its size, texture, and whether it moves easily. Benign (non-cancerous) lumps often feel different from cancerous ones.

Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy

Uses a computer and a transducer that sends out ultrasonic sound waves to create images of the breast lump or mass. This technique helps to guide a needle biopsy. Tissue or fluid samples are then sent for further testing.

3D whole-breast ultrasound (digital breast tomosynthesis)

For women at higher risk or those with dense breasts, this test takes pictures from many different angles to create a 3D image of the breast. It can find cancer more often than regular mammograms, improving detection by 20-40%.

Automated full-breast ultrasound

This test helps doctors find cancers hidden in dense breast tissue that might not show up on a regular mammogram.

Diagnostic breast ultrasound

This test uses sound waves to create pictures of the breast tissue. It’s often used if a mammogram finds something that needs a closer look.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A MRI uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make detailed pictures of the breast. It’s especially helpful for women at higher risk of breast cancer or those with dense breast tissue.

Mammograms

A mammogram is a special X-ray of the breast. It's a screening test that doctors recommend for women 40 and older, usually once a year, to check for early signs of breast cancer. It’s a simple and quick test that can catch problems before symptoms appear.

Scintimammography

This test is used when other exams are unclear. It helps doctors see areas of the breast that might need more attention, making sure nothing is missed.

Avoid wearing deodorant or perfume

It’s important not to wear deodorant, antiperspirant, or perfume on the day of your mammogram. These products can leave residues that might show up in the images, making it harder for doctors to get a clear picture of your breast tissue.

Schedule a week after your menstrual cycle ends

If possible, schedule your mammogram appointment about a week after your menstrual period. This is when your breasts are usually less tender, which can make the procedure more comfortable.

Wear a two-piece outfit

Choose a two-piece outfit, such as a shirt and pants or a skirt, so that you can easily remove your top. During the screening, you'll need to undress from the waist up, and this makes it easier and more comfortable for you.

Follow-up may be needed for additional imaging or testing

In some cases, your doctor may suggest additional imaging or tests if something unusual is found or if they need more detailed pictures.

Quick and minimally invasive procedures

Most breast screenings are quick and don't require much time. These procedures are designed to be as gentle and minimally invasive as possible.

Results are typically available within a few days

After your screening, your doctor will review the images or test results. In most cases, you'll get your results within a few days.