Diagnostic Mammogram in Colorado
What is Diagnostic Mammogram?
A diagnostic mammogram uses low dose x-ray to evaluate a breast concern or to "get a closer look" at a finding on a recent screening mammogram. The special views may use 3D mammography, magnification, or spot compression views to further characterize an area of interest. A breast complaint such as a lump, nipple discharge, or focal pain may require special diagnostic images to be interpreted by radiologists specialized in this field.
The purpose of the diagnostic mammogram is to distinguish normal structures that are components of the breast from abnormal lesions. A diagnostic mammogram can detect subtle differences in the cellular structure or patterns of the tissues. Mammogram abnormalities may present as distortion, masses, or small white spots called cluster microcalcifications. Obtaining a diagnostic mammogram provides the clearest images to characterize an abnormal finding.
On additional imaging evaluation, most abnormal mammogram findings will prove to be benign (noncancerous). However, diagnostic mammography imaging is necessary to distinguish these findings from malignancy (cancer). The radiologist can only render an opinion after obtaining the specialized imaging. For example, calcifications seen on a mammogram may be characterized as fibrocystic after additional imaging or may be characterized as cluster calcifications that require further workup. Most cluster calcifications are benign (noncancerous), but the closer look can help to distinguish these.
Screening mammography looks at "the big picture," while diagnostic mammography provides "the detail."
What Details Should I Tell the Scheduler and Mammography Technologist?
Please tell the scheduler and technologist if you have any particular breast concerns. These concerns may include:
New lumps
Asymmetric thickening
Focal pain
New nipple inversion or discharge
Skin redness or warmth
Swelling or change in size
Lymph node enlargement or pain
Please tell the scheduler and technologist if you have had a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, or a genetic mutation. Supplemental imaging such as breast MRI may be indicated at a later date.
If you have breast implants or breast complaints, we will need extra time to perform and interpret the imaging examination.
Who’s Reading Your Diagnostic Mammogram? Experience Matters.
For over 27 years, The Women’s Imaging Center has provided advanced imaging services for women in Colorado. We are the area’s only comprehensive women’s imaging center, offering over 100 breast, body imaging, and diagnostic medical procedures. Our interdisciplinary approach ensures you get the answers you need.
What to Expect With a Diagnostic Mammogram
We want to make you as comfortable as possible during your diagnostic mammogram. Here’s what you can expect for your procedure.
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