How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Breast cancer diagnosis

Most women with breast cancer symptoms will have a breast lump. However, it is important to remember that most breast lumps are typically benign. Benign and malignant breast lumps physically difficult to distinguish. To determine whether the lump is cancerous, a tissue sample is taken and analyzed under a microscope. A comprehensive breast cancer diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging, and tissue biopsy studies.

Several imaging options are available to diagnose breast cancer:

Mammogram - A mammography is an x-ray that can confirm the malignancy of a breast lump. Mammograms are particularly useful for early detection of lumps, as they can often detect a lump before it can be felt physically. Mammogram images are more sensitive during the first 2 weeks of the menstrual cycle, when the breast tissue is less dense.

Breast Ultrasound – an ultrasound image is very sensitive at determining whether the breast lump is cancerous or simply a harmless cyst.

Breast MRI – An MRI image uses magnets to create a highly detailed image of the inner breast tissue. MRI images are more sensitive than mammograms or ultrasound, but also have a higher rate of false positives and are expensive. MRIs are not recommended for patients with low risk profiles. Breast MRIs are also not recommended for patients with invasive breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

Breast Biopsy - While imaging studies can help diagnose breast cancer, the most accurate detection involves taking a physical tissue sample called a biopsy. Biopsy samples are taken using a needle and analyzed under a microscope. A biopsy can determine whether or not the cells are cancerous. If the cells are cancerous, a biopsy can determine the type of cancer cells, the level of abnormality of cells, and whether certain hormonal proteins are present. The biopsy information is used to access the grade and stage of the tumor, which forms the best available options for treatment.