Tag: family history

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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 BRCA Testing

BRCA testing is a type of genetic testing that can help identify a person’s risk of developing certain types of cancer. It is most commonly used to detect mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

Who should get BRCA testing?

BRCA testing is typically recommended for people who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or for those who have certain genetic mutations that are associated with an increased risk of cancer. It is important to speak with your healthcare team to determine if BRCA testing is right for you.

What can BRCA testing tell me?

BRCA testing can help identify whether or not you have a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. If a mutation is found, it can help determine your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

What happens before BRCA testing?

Before BRCA testing, you will likely have a consultation with your healthcare team to discuss your family history and any other risk factors that may be relevant. You may also be asked to provide a blood or saliva sample for testing.

What happens during BRCA testing?

During BRCA testing, your sample will be analyzed for any mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Depending on the type of test, this process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

What happens after BRCA testing?

After BRCA testing, your healthcare team will review the results with you and discuss any next steps that may be necessary. Depending on the results, you may need to undergo additional testing or screenings.

What are the benefits of BRCA testing?

The primary benefit of BRCA testing is that it can help identify a person’s risk of developing certain types of cancer. This can help inform decisions about preventive measures, such as increased screenings or lifestyle changes.

What are the risks of BRCA testing?

The risks of BRCA testing are generally minimal. However, it is important to be aware that the results of the test may have implications for your health insurance coverage.

When should I know the results of the BRCA testing?

The timeline for receiving the results of BRCA testing can vary depending on the type of test and the laboratory that is performing the test. Generally, you should expect to receive the results within a few weeks.

What does it mean if the results are positive?

If the results of the BRCA testing are positive, it means that a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes has been identified. This can indicate an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.

What does it mean if the results are negative?

If the results of the BRCA testing are negative, it means that no mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes has been identified. This does not necessarily mean that you are not at risk of developing cancer, as there may be other factors that can increase your risk.

What does it mean if the results are uncertain?

If the results of the BRCA testing are uncertain, it means that the laboratory was unable to determine whether or not a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes was present. In this case, your healthcare team may recommend additional testing or screenings.

What questions should I ask my healthcare team?

When discussing BRCA testing with your healthcare team, it is important to ask questions about the risks and benefits of the test, as well as any potential implications for your health insurance coverage. It is also important to ask about the timeline for receiving the results and any next steps that may be necessary.

References:

1. National Cancer Institute. (2020). BRCA1 and BRCA2: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet

2. American Cancer Society. (2020). BRCA1 and BRCA2: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/brca-genetic-testing.html

3. Mayo Clinic. (2020). BRCA Genetic Testing. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/brca-genetic-testing/about/pac-20384919

Keywords: BRCA testing, genetic testing, cancer risk, family history, BRCA1, BRCA2, mutations, healthcare team, results, positive, negative, uncertain.