BILATERAL MAMMOGRAPHY

Simply put, a Bilateral Mammography is a specific type of low-dose X-ray that creates detailed images of both of your breasts (bilateral means "both sides"). This advanced imaging technology is expertly designed to reveal potential abnormalities within the breast tissue, such as masses or microcalcifications, that may be too small to be felt during a physical self-exam or by a doctor. By capturing these clear images, radiologists can identify early signs of disease long before symptoms appear, which is crucial for successful treatment.

Types of Mammography

Advancements in technology have led to different types of mammography. Understanding the difference between a digital mammogram vs 3d mammogram can help you know what to expect.

2D Digital Mammography

This is the standard type of mammogram that has been used for many years. It captures two single X-ray images of each breast: one from top-to-bottom and another from side-to-side. These flat images are highly effective for general screening.

3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis)

This is a more advanced form of mammography. The machine takes multiple low-dose X-ray images of the breast from various angles. A computer then reconstructs these images into a clear, three-dimensional picture. This layered view allows the radiologist to examine the breast tissue one slice at a time, which is particularly useful for detecting cancer in women with dense breast tissue and can help reduce the rate of false positives.

When a radiologist at Cadabams Diagnostics reviews your mammogram images, they are meticulously looking for specific signs that could indicate an abnormality. These key parameters include:

• Calcifications: These are tiny deposits of calcium within the breast tissue. They appear as small white spots on a mammogram. While most calcifications are benign (non-cancerous), certain patterns or shapes can be an early sign of cancer.
• Masses: This refers to any lump or tumor. The radiologist will assess a mass for its size, shape (e.g., round, oval, irregular), and margins (whether the edges are smooth or jagged). Benign masses are typically round and smooth, while cancerous masses are more likely to be irregular.
• Architectural Distortion: This is when the natural structure of the breast tissue appears pulled, puckered, or distorted, but there is no definite mass visible. This can sometimes be a subtle sign of an underlying cancer.
• Asymmetries: This occurs when an area of tissue in one breast looks different in size, shape, or density compared to the same area in the other breast. While some asymmetry is normal, a new or changing area of asymmetry requires further evaluation.

You or your doctor may decide it's time for a Bilateral Mammography for several important reasons:

1. Routine Annual Screening: As a proactive measure for early detection, especially for women over 40.
2. Symptom Investigation: To get a clear view of the breast tissue when a specific symptom is present. This includes using a breast x-ray for a lump, investigating unexplained pain, evaluating skin changes like dimpling or redness, or understanding the cause of nipple discharge.
3. Follow-Up Evaluation: To take a closer look after an abnormal finding on a previous screening mammogram or another test.
4. High-Risk Monitoring: To carefully monitor individuals who have a personal history of breast cancer or a strong family history of the disease.

When and Who Needs to Take a Bilateral Mammography?

The recommendations for undergoing a Bilateral Mammography generally fall into two categories: screening and diagnostic.

• Routine Screening: This test is most widely known as a routine breast cancer screening test. Health organizations typically recommend that women begin annual or biennial screening mammograms at age 40. For individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer or other high-risk factors, a doctor may recommend starting screening at an earlier age.
• Diagnostic Evaluation: A mammogram is also used as a critical diagnostic tool for individuals of any gender who are experiencing symptoms. If you or your doctor discover a lump, persistent breast pain, skin changes on the breast, nipple retraction, or unusual nipple discharge, a diagnostic Bilateral Mammography will be ordered to investigate the cause.

Benefits of Taking the Test

The benefits of undergoing a regular Bilateral Mammography are significant and can be life-saving.

• Early Detection: This is the single most important benefit. Mammograms can detect breast cancer up to three years before a lump can be felt. Finding cancer at this early stage dramatically improves treatment outcomes and long-term survival rates.
• High Accuracy: It is an excellent and highly accurate imaging tool for finding tumors and other abnormalities.
• Guides Further Action: The results of a mammogram help your doctor make informed decisions. It clarifies whether a finding is benign, needs to be monitored, or requires further testing like biopsy.

Illnesses Diagnosed with Bilateral Mammography

A Bilateral Mammography is instrumental in diagnosing a wide range of breast conditions, including:

• Malignant (Cancerous) Conditions:
  • Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct.
  • Invasive Ductal or Lobular Carcinoma: Cancers that have broken through the walls of the duct or lobule to invade the surrounding breast tissue.
• Benign (Non-Cancerous) Conditions:
  • Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that are very common and harmless.
  • Fibroadenomas: Solid, non-cancerous tumors that are most common in younger women.
  • Benign Calcifications: Harmless calcium deposits caused by aging, old injuries, or inflammation.

Proper preparation can help ensure a smooth procedure and the highest quality images.

• On the day of your appointment, do not wear deodorant, antiperspirant, lotions, or powders under your arms or on your breasts. These products can contain metallic particles that may appear on the mammogram and interfere with the results.
• Wear a comfortable, two-piece outfit (like a top and pants/skirt). This is more convenient, as you will only need to undress from the waist up for the test.
• If you have had mammograms at another facility, please inform our staff at Cadabams Diagnostics beforehand. Comparing your new images to previous ones is extremely valuable for the radiologist.

Pre-requisites

A doctor's referral or prescription is typically required to schedule a Bilateral Mammography.

Best Time to Take the Bilateral Mammography

To minimize potential discomfort, timing is key.

• For premenopausal women: The best time to schedule your mammogram is during the week following your menstrual period. Your breasts are usually least tender during this time.
• For postmenopausal women: You can schedule your mammogram at any time that is convenient for you.

Eligibility

• Screening: Generally recommended for all women aged 40 and over.
• Diagnostic: Applicable to any person, regardless of age or gender, who is experiencing breast symptoms and has a doctor's recommendation.

Procedure for Taking a Bilateral Mammography

Knowing the mammogram procedure and what to expect can help ease any anxiety. The entire process at Cadabams Diagnostics is handled professionally and with your comfort in mind.

Step 1 (Check-in & Prep)

When you arrive, you will check in and may be asked to confirm some details from your medical history. You will then be taken to a private room and asked to undress from the waist up. You'll be given a comfortable gown to wear.

Step 2 (Positioning)

A friendly and specially trained radiologic technologist will guide you to the mammography machine. They will position one of your breasts on the machine's imaging platform.

Step 3 (Compression)

A clear plastic plate will be lowered to gently but firmly compress your breast for a few seconds. While this can be uncomfortable, compression is absolutely essential. It spreads the breast tissue out, prevents blurring from movement, and allows for a lower X-ray dose, all of which contribute to a clear, accurate image.

Step 4 (Imaging)

The technologist will ask you to hold your breath and stay still for the few seconds it takes to capture the X-ray image. The compression is then released immediately. This process is typically repeated to get a side view of the breast. The technologist will then repeat the entire process for your other breast. A standard screening mammogram usually takes about 20-30 minutes from start to finish.

Caution Before Taking the Test

For your safety and the accuracy of the test, always inform the technologist before the procedure if you:

• Are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
• Are currently breastfeeding.
• Have breast implants (this requires special techniques).
• Have any areas of tenderness, lumps, or other concerns you would like them to be aware of.