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Breast Health"Reading" a mammogramThe mammogram is first checked by the technologist and then read by a diagnostic radiologist, a doctor who specializes in interpreting x-rays. The radiologist looks for unusual shadows, masses, distortions, special patterns of tissue density, and differences between the two breasts (see photo). The shape of a mass can be important, too. A growth that is benign (noncancerous) such as a cyst, looks smooth and round and has a clearly defined edge. Breast cancer, in contrast, often has an irregular outline with finger-like extensions.Many mammograms show nontransparent white specks. These are calcium deposits known as calcifications.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Click on the for more information button above to learn more about NCI.
Last modified on 04/10/2000 |
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