Breast MRI, mammograms and breast ultrasounds may be used for different reasons, but are most beneficial as complementary diagnostic procedures. They are often used together to provide the most thorough analysis and diagnosis of breast abnormalities or early breast cancer. Watch our videos on women's cancers, including breast cancer and compare breast MRI, mammograms and breast ultrasounds:
Mammograms:
A mammogram is the best way to see microcalcifications in the breast, which are small calcium deposits. Unlike macrocalcifications, which are larger deposits that appear due to aging, injury or inflammation, microcalcifications can be worrisome as they may indicate breast cancer. The radiologist will thoroughly evaluate any microcalcifications present, in order to determine the likelihood of cancer, and may recommend a breast biopsy for further assessment.
Breast Ultrasound:
Breast Ultrasound: A breast ultrasound is the best way to perform a biopsy in the majority of cases, and is the most comfortable for patients. A breast ultrasound transmits sound waves through the breast using a handheld instrument, and echoes from these sound waves are then translated into images on the computer screen. During a core needle biopsy, the breast is numbed with a local anesthetic and ultrasound is used to accurately guide the needle into the lesion to draw out strands of tissue, which are sent to a pathology lab for analysis.
Breast MRI:
A breast MRI is an excellent tool for determining the extent of breast cancer in one or both breasts. A breast MRI can be instrumental in deciding on the best course of cancer treatment. If a woman has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the initial treatment decisions to make is whether she will undergo a lumpectomy or a mastectomy. During a lumpectomy, the breast tumour and some of the surrounding tissue is removed, while a mastectomy means removal of the entire breast. If a woman wants a lumpectomy rather than a mastectomy, the physician must be confident that the cancer is contained to a specific area, so a breast MRI can be used to ensure that there are no tumours in the surrounding breast tissue.