Do you know the difference between screening and diagnostic mammography?
Screening Mammograms
Screening mammography in Canada is similar to diagnostic mammography, with a few small but significant differences. Yearly screening mammograms are recommended for all women starting at the age of 40, and are used when there are no breast lumps or other symptoms of breast cancer present.
Diagnostic Mammograms
A diagnostic mammogram is performed when an abnormality in the breast has been found, such as a new lump or nipple discharge.
Usually, a diagnostic mammogram in Canada is a longer procedure than a screening mammogram, as additional images are taken to provide the radiologist with a more detailed view of the breast. During most routine mammograms, only two views of each breast are taken. In most cases, a diagnostic mammogram indicates that the breast abnormality is non-cancerous (benign). A diagnostic mammogram can help determine the exact location and size of the growth, and if the radiologist is suspicious about the results, a breast ultrasound or core needle biopsy may be scheduled.
During diagnostic mammography, each breast is compressed between two plastic plates for a short period of time. In the case of a conventional mammogram, the radiologic technologist takes pictures of the breast, and images are printed onto black and white X-ray film for analysis by the radiologist. Some breast abnormalities can be difficult to detect during a conventional mammogram.
What's the right age to start getting mammograms? Watch our Age for Screening Mammography video.
Digital mammography also uses X-rays to produce images, but they aren't stored on film. Digital images are stored electronically and the radiologist can view and manipulate them on the computer screen and closely examine any area from a variety of angles. In most cases, a digital mammogram amounts to a lower dose of radiation than a conventional mammogram.