Detection & Diagnosis
While women are encouraged to undergo an evaluation immediately if they’re experiencing any signs or symptoms of breast cancer, doctors can check for breast cancer before symptoms are present.
During an office visit, you can expect your doctor to ask about your personal and family medical history. It’s important to discuss with a physician your individual risk factors, including age, menopausal status, and family history to determine your screening needs. Learn more about recommended screening guidelines.
Doctors will perform a physical exam and recommend a screening test. Doctors may order one or more imaging tests, such as a mammogram to check for abnormalities. Doctors recommend that women have regular clinical breast exams and mammograms to find breast cancer early. Treatment is more effective when breast cancer is detected early. It’s important to keep in mind the tests can rule out cancer and identify other benign breast conditions.
Learn more about imaging tests:
Your doctor may request a breast biopsy if abnormalities are detected. A biopsy removes tissue from the breast to determine if cancer cells or other benign conditions are present.
Your doctor may request special lab tests on cancerous breast tissue that has been removed. Breast tissue testing can help your doctor determine the best way to manage your care.
During a clinical breast exam, you can expect your physician to carefully examine your breasts for any lumps or irregularities.
A mammogram is an X-ray image of breast tissue. Mammograms can identify a breast lump or abnormality before it can be felt.
Your doctor may order other imaging tests if abnormalities are found during a breast exam or mammogram.