Breast Cancer Diagnosis

In order to diagnose the Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Diagnosis is used. Breast cancer is a terrible disease, which should be taken very seriously by all women. Though the disease may be terminal, if spotted early, you can undergo many procedures to stop the problem.

Mammogram for Breast Cancer Diagnosis

It is of extreme importance for all women over 40 to be screened once per year for breast cancer via a mammogram. Performed by the doctors, a mammogram is an x-ray of the breast tissue. While mammograms are not one hundred percent perfect, they are the best procedure we currently have for diagnosing breast cancer. Studies show that death by breast cancer in women fifty years of age or older can be reduced by a full thirty-five percent by getting regular mammograms.

Biopsy for Breast Cancer Diagnosis

The only definitive way to diagnose breast cancer is via a biopsy of the tissue in question. A biopsy consists of a small piece of tissue taken from the area in question for examination and testing. There are a number of different biopsy techniques available.

Fine Needle Aspiration

Another type of biopsy is a fine needle aspiration where a needle is placed into the breast and some cells extracted to examine by a pathologist. This is the most common technique used when a fluid filled massed has been identified and cancer is not likely to be the case.

Core Needle Biopsy

A core needle biopsy consists of a special needle taking away a small piece of tissue for examination. An ultrasound or a mammogram usually directs this type of biopsy.

If the mass can be felt easily, the cells may be removed via a needle without the additional guidance techniques. This technique used now on a more regular basis due to it being less invasive than surgical biopsies. A sample of tissue only needs to be taken rather than removing the entire of the lump.

Surgical Biopsy

A surgical biopsy consists of making an incision on the breast and removing the piece of tissue in question. There are a number of techniques used to remove the entire lump.

Sentinel Node Biopsy

A sentinel node biopsy is the process of injecting radioactive substances into the area where tumor lies. Health professionals then follow the path of the substance as it travels to the lymph nodes. The first node reached is the sentinel node. This is the most important node in a biopsy when exploring the spread of a tumour.

A pathologist will review the tissue under a microscope, irrespective of the way the biopsy. Should the cells be cancerous, the patient will undergo surgery for the removal of the tumour. The amount of tissue removed will depend on the situation although additional tissue around the tumour will be removed to check whether the cancer has spread.

On some occasions, the whole breast is removed, known as a mastectomy and/or some of the lymph nodes under the arm removed to test the spread of the cancer.

Ultrasound Examination or Ultrasonography

In addition to a mammogram, an ultrasound examination known as ultrasonograpy is to be performed. This consists of waves, which create a picture of the contents of the breast. An ultrasound can help determine whether a mass be filled with fluid such as a cyst or whether it is solid. Cancerous lumps are usually solid although many cysts are benign. An ultrasound may be used as a guide for a biopsy or assisting in removal of fluid.

Self-Examination for Breast Cancer

In addition to this yearly mammogram, all women should conduct self-examination for breast cancer on a monthly basis. This test should address the look and feel of the breast. Become acquainted with exactly what your breasts look like on an every-day basis so that you can better note any changes that may have occurred. It is best to conduct a breast cancer exam roughly seven days after the end of your period, giving you the opportunity to perform the test when your breasts are the least sore.

Size and Shape of the Breasts

When performing the test, you should note whether the breasts are the normal size, shape, and color. In addition, it is important to ensure that your breasts are shaped evenly with lack of any significant swelling. If you note any difference in the skin of the breast, such as a dimpling of the skin or a bulging of it, it is important to let a doctor know immediately. In addition, if your nipple has changed position, or even began to invert, pointing inwards, your doctor notified of it.

Next, raise your arms above your head and ensure that there is no noticeable difference in the breasts regarding the previously discussed factors. Another key step in a self-exam is to; lightly squeeze the nipples to ensure that there is no discharge. If there is a fluid discharge that is milky, yellow, or blood, be sure to note it and discuss it with your doctor immediately. The next step in a self-breast exam is to lay down.

Laying down the Breasts

The breasts sit a different way when you are laying down, and you should probe the entire length and width of your breasts, noting any abnormalities. As you perform the exam, increase the pressure of your touch so that you can feel all parts of the breast.

Hands Probing

The last step in a breast cancer exam is to sit or stand and perform the same probing with your hands. Many women find it best to perform this exam after a shower with the intention that their skin is wet and slippery, easing the process. Again, if you note any differences in the breast tissue while performing this exam, it is important to contact your doctor and take action immediately.