Breast Cancer Tests

Private Home Health Care believes in early detection of breast cancer for the best outcome.  Today we will be sharing information about different tests available for diagnosis.

We have all heard how important it is for us to perform self-exams.  According to research from the John Hopkins Medical Center, at least 40% of breast cancers were discovered by women who performed self-exams.  Knowing how our breasts look and feel is key.

Here are some of the diagnostic tests available:

Imaging Tests

Mammograms – these are recommended for you if you are age 45 or older. If you have a family history or concerns you can get screened earlier.

Ultrasounds – if there is a mass or lump discovered during your mammogram, this test may be ordered by your doctor.  The test can help determine if the mass or lump is filled with fluid or solid. (Not always but often a fluid filled cyst is benign.)

Breast MRI – if you are at high risk your doctor may order this one, but it can have high false positives.  Keep this in mind and discuss with your doctor.

Biopsies

If during your breast imaging test there is a mass or lump discovered, you may need a biopsy.  These are usually outpatient and is another way to find out if the mass is cancerous.  

There are multiple types of biopsies so be sure to speak with your doctor if you get to this stage.

Private Home Health Care knows that there is a lot of information around breast cancer.  We need to be aware of what is available to us so that each of us can have the best outcomes and live our best lives.