Here are some points to consider regarding MAMMOGRAPHY:

• Structural test: can pinpoint the location of suspicious area
• Compresses the breast
• X-ray radiation produces an image; the area of concern must have greater density to stand out against regular tissue
• Can detect tumors in mainly slow-growing stage or pre-invasive stage
• Cannot detect fast-growing tumors in the pre-invasive stage
• The use of hormones decreases sensitivity
• Large, dense and fibrocystic breasts are difficult to read
• The upper portions of the breast (including the tail of the breast and the axillary region) cannot be visualized
• Can detect tumors 1-2 years earlier than physical examination
• Average specificity 75% (25% false-positive)
• 9 out of 10 biopsies initiated by mammography are negative
• Average sensitivity 80% with 20% of cancers missed in women over age 50
• In women under age 50, sensitivity is 60% (or, 40% of cancers missed)

Next week, I will go over the pros and cons of ultrasound.

Alexander Mostovoy