Tag: breast cancer

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Everything You Need to Know About Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound is a type of imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the inside of the breast. It is used to help diagnose breast cancer and other breast conditions. Ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that does not use radiation.

What is Breast Ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound is a type of imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the inside of the breast. It is used to help diagnose breast cancer and other breast conditions. Ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that does not use radiation.

When is a Breast Ultrasound Needed?

A breast ultrasound may be recommended if you have a lump or other abnormality in your breast. It can also be used to evaluate breast pain, nipple discharge, or other breast symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend a breast ultrasound if you have a family history of breast cancer or if you have a high risk of developing breast cancer.

How Do I Prepare for a Breast Ultrasound?

Your doctor will provide instructions on how to prepare for your breast ultrasound. Generally, you will be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry from the area being examined. You may also be asked to wear a gown during the procedure. You should also inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, as some medications may interfere with the results of the ultrasound.

What Happens During a Breast Ultrasound?

During the ultrasound, a technician will apply a special gel to your breast. The gel helps the sound waves travel through your breast tissue. The technician will then use a handheld device called a transducer to send sound waves into your breast. The sound waves bounce off the structures inside your breast and are picked up by the transducer. The sound waves are then converted into images that can be seen on a monitor.

What Happens After a Breast Ultrasound?

After the ultrasound, the technician will clean the gel off your breast. You can usually go home right away. Your doctor will review the images and discuss the results with you. If any abnormalities are found, your doctor may recommend additional tests or treatments.

What are the Risks of a Breast Ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure. There are no known risks associated with the procedure.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

If you have any questions or concerns about your breast ultrasound, you should contact your doctor. You should also contact your doctor if you experience any pain or discomfort during or after the procedure.

References

  • American Cancer Society. (2020). Breast Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/imaging-tests/breast-ultrasound.html
  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). Breast Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-ultrasound/about/pac-20384717
  • National Cancer Institute. (2020). Breast Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/breast-ultrasound

Keywords: breast ultrasound, imaging test, sound waves, breast cancer, breast conditions, breast pain, nipple discharge, family history, high risk, transducer.

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Everything You Need to Know About Breast MRIs

A breast MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a type of imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast. It is used to detect and diagnose breast cancer and other breast diseases.

What is the difference between a breast MRI and a mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that is used to detect breast cancer. A breast MRI is a more detailed imaging test that can detect smaller tumors and other abnormalities that may not be visible on a mammogram.

Why would my healthcare provider order a breast MRI?

Your healthcare provider may order a breast MRI if you have a family history of breast cancer, if you have a high risk of developing breast cancer, or if you have already been diagnosed with breast cancer. It can also be used to monitor the progress of treatment for breast cancer.

Breast MRI and breast cancer

A breast MRI can be used to detect and diagnose breast cancer. It can also be used to monitor the progress of treatment for breast cancer.

Does a breast MRI always show cancer?

No, a breast MRI does not always show cancer. It can detect small tumors and other abnormalities that may not be visible on a mammogram.

Who performs a breast MRI?

A breast MRI is typically performed by a radiologist, a doctor who specializes in medical imaging.

How do I prepare for a breast MRI?

Before a breast MRI, you should tell your doctor if you have any metal implants or if you are pregnant. You may also be asked to remove any jewelry or clothing that contains metal.

What should I expect during a breast MRI?

During a breast MRI, you will lie on a table and a special machine will take pictures of your breasts. The procedure is painless and usually takes about 30 minutes.

What should I expect after my breast MRI?

After a breast MRI, you can usually go home and resume your normal activities.

How long does a breast MRI take?

A breast MRI typically takes about 30 minutes.

What are the risks of a breast MRI?

The risks of a breast MRI are minimal. The most common side effect is feeling claustrophobic due to the close quarters of the MRI machine.

What type of results do you get from a breast MRI?

A breast MRI can detect small tumors and other abnormalities that may not be visible on a mammogram. The results of a breast MRI will be interpreted by a radiologist and reported to your healthcare provider.

When should I know the results of my breast MRI?

The results of a breast MRI will usually be available within a few days. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.

References:

1. American Cancer Society. (2020). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Breast. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/imaging-tests/mri/mri-of-the-breast.html

2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Breast MRI. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-mri/about/pac-20384717

3. National Cancer Institute. (2020). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Breast. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/imaging-mri-breast

Keywords: breast MRI, mammogram, breast cancer, healthcare provider, MRI machine

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Everything You Need to Know About Breast Biopsies

A breast biopsy is a procedure used to diagnose breast cancer and other conditions. It involves removing a sample of breast tissue for examination under a microscope. The sample can be taken from the breast itself or from a lymph node in the armpit.

What is a Breast Biopsy Used For?

A breast biopsy is used to diagnose breast cancer and other conditions, such as cysts, fibroadenomas, and infections. It can also be used to determine the type of breast cancer and the extent of the disease.

What are the Different Kinds of Breast Biopsies?

There are several different types of breast biopsies, including:

  • Needle biopsy:

    This is the most common type of biopsy. It involves inserting a needle into the breast to remove a sample of tissue.

  • Core biopsy:

    This type of biopsy uses a larger needle to remove a larger sample of tissue.

  • Surgical biopsy:

    This type of biopsy involves making an incision in the breast to remove a sample of tissue.

When Do I Need a Breast Biopsy?

A breast biopsy may be recommended if you have a lump or other abnormality in your breast that can’t be diagnosed with a mammogram or ultrasound. It may also be recommended if you have a suspicious area on a mammogram or if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Who Performs a Breast Biopsy?

A breast biopsy is usually performed by a radiologist or a surgeon.

How Do I Prepare for a Breast Biopsy?

Your doctor will give you instructions on how to prepare for the biopsy. This may include avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, and avoiding alcohol for 24 hours before the procedure.

How Does a Breast Biopsy Procedure Work?

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

  • Anesthesia:

    You may be given a local anesthetic to numb the area.

  • Imaging or material guidance:

    An imaging test, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, may be used to guide the biopsy.

  • The incision:

    A small incision is made in the breast.

  • Breast tissue removal:

    A sample of breast tissue is removed.

  • Placing biopsy markers:

    A marker may be placed in the breast to help the doctor identify the area where the biopsy was taken.

  • Closing the incision:

    The incision is closed with stitches.

  • Examining the tissue sample:

    The tissue sample is examined under a microscope.

What Should I Expect During a Breast Biopsy?

You may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but it should not be painful. You may also feel some pressure or a tugging sensation.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Breast Biopsy?

Recovery time varies depending on the type of biopsy. Generally, you should be able to resume normal activities within a few days.

What are the Risks and Possible Complications of a Breast Biopsy?

The risks and possible complications of a breast biopsy include infection, bleeding, and scarring.

How Long Do Breast Biopsy Results Take?

It usually takes a few days to a few weeks to get the results of a breast biopsy.

What Do the Results of a Breast Biopsy Mean?

The results of a breast biopsy can indicate whether or not you have breast cancer. If cancer is present, the results can also provide information about the type and stage of the cancer.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

You should call your doctor if you experience any pain, swelling, or redness at the biopsy site. You should also call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the results of the biopsy.

What Percentage of Breast Biopsies are Cancer?

Approximately 20% of breast biopsies are cancerous.

How Painful is a Breast Biopsy?

A breast biopsy is usually not painful. You may feel some discomfort or pressure during the procedure, but it should not be painful.

What Kinds of Conditions Can Look or Feel Similar to Breast Cancer?

Conditions that can look or feel similar to breast cancer include cysts, fibroadenomas, and infections.

References

  • American Cancer Society. (2020). Breast Biopsy. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/types-of-biopsies/breast-biopsy.html
  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). Breast Biopsy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-biopsy/about/pac-20384912
  • National Cancer Institute. (2020). Breast Biopsy. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/breast-biopsy

Keywords: breast biopsy, needle biopsy, core biopsy, surgical biopsy, breast cancer