Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammogram
A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It usually involves two x-rays of each breast. Mammograms make it possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt. Mammograms also can find tiny deposits of calcium in the breast that can indicate the presence of breast cancer.
How are screening and diagnostic mammograms different?
A diagnostic mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other sign or symptom of breast cancer has been found. Signs of breast cancer may include pain, skin thickening, nipple discharge, or a change in breast size or shape. A diagnostic mammogram also may be used to evaluate changes found during a screening mammogram, or to view breast tissue when it is difficult to obtain a screening mammogram because of special circumstances, such as the presence of breast implants.
To schedule a mammogram at the OLBH Women's Center, call (606) 836-PINK (7465) or toll-free at 1-866-365-PINK.
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