February 17, 2022

Breast ultrasound

What is a breast ultrasound? 

Breast ultrasound is a useful tool in investigating a wide range of diseases, both benign and malignant. This imaging method is immediate, fast and does not burden the subject with radiation exposure. The examination is performed by a radiologist. 

What does a breast ultrasound show? 

Breast ultrasound allows the detailed characterization of focal lesions detected by mammography. Mammography is a kind of “map” where focal lesions can be seen. Breast ultrasound then identifies many crucial details of these lesions. Using this method, the radiologist identifies the nature of these lesions: cystic or parenchymal, benign or malignant. 

Can Breast Ultrasound Detect Breast Cancer? 

A breast ultrasound is done more often to determine if a problem detected by a mammogram or physical examination of the breast may be a cyst filled with fluid or a solid tumor. Breast ultrasound is not usually done to check for breast cancer. This is because he may lose some early signs of cancer. 

What is the first possible sign of breast cancer? 

A palpable lump in the armpit area or an abnormality in the morphology of the breasts may be the first signs, but it does not always mean that signs like these necessarily lead to breast cancer. Nevertheless, palpation and self-examination of the breasts are very important for the prevention of breast cancer. 

If I have had a breast ultrasound do I need to have a mammogram? 

Breast ultrasound can not replace mammography, as it does not satisfactorily detect a wide range of microcalcifications associated with malignant breast diseases. On the contrary, ultrasound can be used with great success in the examination of the breast at a young age, where mammography is not recommended. 

Which day of the cycle should a breast ultrasound be done? 

Breast ultrasound is recommended to be done about the middle of the cycle, about ten days to two weeks after the end of the period. 

Can breast ultrasound be done during breastfeeding? 

Because there is no radiation, breast ultrasound is suitable for women who are breastfeeding without any risk. 

Do you need any preparation before the test? 

No preparation is required before the test. The only thing that is recommended is for the examinee to present previous examinations with breast ultrasound or mammography for comparison.