Mammograms: When you get called back

Maybe you've heard this over and over again: Early detection saves lives. So you follow your provider's advice and schedule your annual mammograms. Only this time, you're called in for follow-up tests. Should you fear the worst? Definitely NOT. Among women who get called back for additional breast testing, the American Cancer Society says fewer than 10% receive a cancer diagnosis.

All call backs are not created equal

There are several reasons you could get called in for a follow-up mammogram, including:

• The images of your breasts may show an area the radiologist would like to see more clearly or in a different projection.
• An area in the breast looks different from the previous year there are many reasons why one part of the breast may appear different. Follow-up images can uncover the cause.
• A mass or other suspicious area is present in one or both breasts. Before moving to more invasive diagnostic techniques, follow-up imaging can help determine whether anything additional needs to be done.

If you haven't had one already, your provider may recommend a 3D mammogram that gives a more in-depth view of your breasts.

Risk factors for repeat mammograms

Although anyone can get called back for repeat mammograms, some people are at higher risk of receiving an abnormal result.

Those risk factors include:

• Having your first mammogram. Your provider has nothing to compare the results of your first mammogram to.
• You haven't reached menopause. Callback mammograms are more common among younger women.
• Your breasts are dense. Dense breasts are more common if you're on hormone replacement therapy and are not overweight. Younger women are more likely to have dense breasts, but women of any age can have them too.

Diagnostic tests after the initial mammogram

If you're called back after a screening mammogram, additional imaging is often the first step forward. These are diagnostic mammograms, but you will go through the same process as your annual test. In most cases, a diagnostic mammogram is all you need to determine all is well.

In other cases, your provider may want you to have additional testing, such as:

Breast ultrasound. A breast ultrasound is the same technology used to visualize babies in pregnant women. For this noninvasive test, the sonographer spreads gel on the skin and uses a wand to take images of your breast. As it travels, the wand produces sound waves, which create a real-time view of the breast's interior. These images help determine whether the area is suspicious and needs further testing, such as a biopsy.

Breast biopsy. If an abnormality is found on the mammogram, a Breast Center nurse will refer you to a general surgeon to determine the best approach needed for your situation. During a breast biopsy, a small tissue sample is removed for examination. This tissue is often taken with a thin needle, guided by ultrasound or another imaging technique. Once your surgeon has the sample, it is sent to the laboratory for testing. This will lead to a definitive diagnosis.

After your mammogram

Many follow-up breast imaging and biopsy results show no cancer. If cancer is present, your provider will explain the stage and grade of your cancer and discuss the best treatment options for you.

Remember, early detection means early treatment and a greater chance of survival. If cancer is detected in the breast area only and hasn't spread, the five-year survival rate is 99%. Routine screening is so important — and it all starts with a high-quality mammogram.

Looking for accurate, convenient mammography services? Schedule your advanced 3D mammogram today at Reid Health Breast Center.