Mammogram
Finding breast cancer early can be crucial for successful treatment. A mammogram is one of the most important tests for spotting early signs of breast cancer, often before you experience symptoms.
At Aurora Health Care, we aim to make it as easy as possible to get the care you need. You get same-day mammogram results so you can have peace of mind or start treatment right away.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a test that screens for early signs of breast cancer. It uses X-ray imaging to look for irregularities in your breast tissue. Irregularities are not always cancerous, but they could point to a need for further testing.
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Is breast screening the same as a mammogram?
There are a few types of breast screenings, and mammograms are just one type. Doctors typically recommend all women get mammograms to screen for breast cancer. Depending on your risk factors, you may need other screenings along with mammograms.
Why might I need another type of breast screening?
You may need additional breast screenings if you have dense breast tissue. Breast density refers to how much fatty tissue you have in your breasts compared to glandular and fibrous tissue.
Glandular and fibrous tissue look like white spots on a mammogram. Potentially cancerous masses, which also appear as white areas, may be harder to spot in dense breasts.
What are the types of breast screenings?
At Aurora Health Care, we use the most advanced imaging technologies to deliver efficient, accurate results. Our expert team works with you to determine which detection method is the right choice.
Depending on your risk factors and breast density, your breast cancer screening may include:
3D mammograms, also known as breast tomosynthesis, are the gold standard in mammography. The mammogram machine moves around your breast in an arc, taking low-dose X-rays from multiple angles. The result is a three-dimensional image. Learn more about what to expect during a mammogram.
3D mammography machines also take 2D images. Your doctor reviews both 2D and 3D images together. Research has shown that using both 2D and 3D images can improve screening accuracy and lower the chances of needing additional imaging.
3D mammograms have multiple benefits. including:
- Determining the shape, size and location of irregularities
- Getting a more precise look at irregularities in dense breast tissue
- Identifying tumors from harmless masses
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of your internal tissues. A breast ultrasound is not part of the recommended routine screenings for breast cancer. But it may be a helpful tool for women with dense breasts. Ultrasounds can more clearly differentiate between fluid-filled masses, which are unlikely to be cancer, and solid masses, which could be cancer.
A breast MRI uses radio waves and magnets to create a detailed image of your breast tissue. These tests are often used for planning breast cancer surgery or screening the opposite breast if your doctor has detected cancer in one breast. Some women with dense breasts may also need MRIs along with mammograms.
In a breast biopsy, your doctor removes a small amount of breast tissue to analyze under a microscope. They may use ultrasound, MRI or mammogram imaging to pinpoint where to take the tissue sample (image-guided biopsy). Or you may need a sentinel lymph node biopsy, which checks the lymph nodes beneath your armpit to see if breast cancer has spread.
A stereotactic breast biopsy is a technique that uses a special mammography machine. The machine X-rays your breasts from two angles. A computer compares the data from each image to calculate the three-dimensional location of the area of suspicion. Your doctor then uses the precise coordinates to obtain a small sample of tissue or fluid. Your doctor may order a stereotactic breast biopsy if your mammogram shows any irregularities.
What are the different types of mammograms?
There are two main types of mammograms: screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. The tests are similar, but they’re ordered for different reasons.
Screening mammograms
Many people think of a screening mammogram when they hear the word “mammogram.” A screening mammogram is preventive, meaning it looks for breast cancer in women with no symptoms. Doctors recommend that women with average breast cancer risk start screening mammograms between ages 40 and 45. Learn more about when you should get your mammogram.
Diagnostic mammograms
Diagnostic mammograms are for women who have some signs or symptoms that could be breast cancer, such as:
- A lump in the breast
- New variations in breast size or shape
- Nipple discharge
- Pain
- Thickening of your breast’s skin
A diagnostic mammogram typically takes longer than a screening mammogram because the technologist takes more X-rays. The purpose of a diagnostic mammogram is to get a closer look at what’s happening. You may have a diagnostic mammogram and other tests, such as a breast MRI.
How much does a mammogram cost?
Women with insurance can typically get a mammogram with minimal or no costs. Without insurance, the cost may vary. Our team helps you understand your out-of-pocket costs and insurance coverage before you get a mammogram.
Is a mammogram covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover screening mammograms. Many plans also cover diagnostic mammograms, although your out-of-pocket costs may be higher.
Are you at risk for breast cancer?
Knowing your chance of developing breast cancer can help you plan a routine screening schedule. Our breast health quiz estimates your five-year and lifetime risk and gives you an idea of what to do next based on your results.