4 Ways to Understand a Breast Exam

1. Know Why You Need Exams

Understanding the importance of clinical breast exams and related screenings helps you remember to make those vital appointments! The list of risk factors for breast cancer is detailed. Some such as obesity can be controlled; others such as age cannot, so exams are essential. A mass can grow in the breast or under the arm, where lymph nodes trap harmful substances. Many of these are benign, but others may be malignant. Both types can be removed. Sometimes you notice a lump through self examination; other times you discover pain. Discuss any breast changes with a doctor to be safe.

2. Realize Exams Vary With Age

Let's say you visit a new doctor, and you are under 40. Your doctor will review your health history in detail. If you have a family history of the disease, your doctor will decide how often you need to be screened.

During the exam, your physician may check your nipples to see if they release fluid. She will look at the size, shape, color and texture of the skin, areola and nipple. During the clinical exam, she will check the complete breast and beneath the arm. If anything is found , you will be referred on for testing. If this is your first mammogram, ask questions at your doctor's office or imaging center, such as: "How intense is the compression?" or "How do implants affect testing?" If your mammogram reveals dense breasts, you may periodically have ultrasounds with screenings.

Should a mass be found, it might be solid or contain fluid. The National Cancer Institute website, at www.cancer.gov, explains that tests can determine if a mass is a fluid-filled sac called a cyst. If the lump is solid, additional testing is required.

3. Take the Over-40 Initiative

Let's look at a different scenario. You are visiting a doctor and are over 40. Since this cancer risk increases with age, the clinical exam is critical in conjunction with the mammogram. The doctor may compare information from previous mammograms and current ones. Your screening may show macrocalcifications--larger calcium deposits. These changes are common in women over 50 and are usually associated with benign conditions. Smaller calcifications require additional evaluation.

If you have any types of suspicious areas, you will be referred on for further testing and may eventually see a specialist for a biopsy.

4. Know Your Procedures

Your doctor will tell you if an upcoming mammogram is screening or diagnostic. If it's a screening, your breast will be X-rayed to discover abnormal areas. A diagnostic mammogram, also an X-ray, may include more views and focus on one area. If anything abnormal appears during a screening mammogram, your next step could be the diagnostic. An abnormality does not automatically mean cancer, and testing could explain any benign breast conditions.

This article is not designed to provide medical or professional services and is for informational use only. If you have, or suspect, a health problem, please consult your doctor.