Posts Tagged ‘tumors’
Mammography
Definition Of Mammography:
A mammogram is a method to examine the breasts with small doses of radiation. This simple procedure is used to detect very small tumors and cysts, impossible to discover the physical examination. It can also help determine whether tumors are benign or malignant (cancerous). Although the precise diagnosis requires a biopsy to study the cells of the tumor in the breast lump.
Who should get a mammogram?
The recommendations for mammography are:
* All women between 35 and 39 years in order to detect early changes in the mammary gland.
* Every one or two years between 40 and 50 years
* Generally not recommended mammograms for women under 30 because their breast tissue is denser than those of older women. Mammography is not an accurate diagnosis in young women.
* Every year after 50 years
* Frequent assessments should be made for women who have had breast cancer have a sister or mother who had breast cancer or have any signs to suggest the presence of a malignant tumor.
Preparation for Study:
* Do not put powders, creams or deodorants may contain substances that interfere with the film.
* You can have temporary discomfort due to compression of the breasts with the plates. To minimize any discomfort, it is best to have your mammogram a week after the menstrual period. The test takes 10 to 15 minutes. If the person has large breasts, may need to take x-rays from different angles.
* While mammography can detect cancer early, not cent percent safe. Sometimes does not detect tiny lumps, and tumors that appear benign on mammogram turn out to be cancerous.