Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer diagnosed in American women, only after skin cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Women have a 13% chance of eventually developing the condition, so getting tested for it is key to early diagnosis and successful treatment.
Let’s talk about the main types of breast cancer testing procedures that are available today, and where you can go here in The Bronx for accurate and efficient breast cancer testing and comprehensive women’s healthcare.
Scanning Tests for Breast Cancer
There are several ways to scan for breast tumor cells, including the following:
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a medical imaging test using sound waves and no radiation. The fact that it does not involve radiation is one of the main reasons why it is used in assessing pregnancies. In the case of breast cancer testing, your doctor can evaluate ultrasound images to determine whether a breast lump is just a fluid-filled cyst or a mass of tumor cells.
During an ultrasound test for breast cancer, your healthcare provider will use a wand-like tool called a transducer. They will first apply a warm, clear, and washable gel over the target area, then move the transducer over the site. The transducer generates ultrasonic waves, while the gel helps the transducer to collect pictures smoothly across the area.
Mammogram
Mammography is the favored procedure available at a radiology center for breast cancer screening. This scan is simply a specialized X-ray exam for detecting breast cancer.
Mammograms are usually in 2D; but thanks to recent technological advancements, you can now get 3D mammography so that your doctor can have a clear picture of your breast tissue. This produces much greater detail of your breasts.
Because a mammogram does use radiation, this breast cancer testing procedure is inadvisable for pregnant women.
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses large, strong magnets to provide detailed images of tissues and organs. With an MRI of your breast, your doctor can determine the size, type, and precise location of the cancer.
Breast MRIs are usually for those who have already been diagnosed with cancer. An MRI for breast cancer usually involves an injection of radioactive dye into your veins in order to display better contrast of your tissues.
You’ll need to first remove any jewelry and other metal accessories. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider or the MRI technician if you have:
- A pacemaker
- Body piercings
- Metal dental fillings
- Cochlear ear implant for hearing
- Clips used on brain aneurysm
- Metal coils in your blood vessels
- Shrapnel in your body
Biopsy
If your imaging test detects unusual findings, you may need to have a breast biopsy. The doctor will remove a very small tissue sample from the suspicious area in your breast for testing in a lab. Results of the biopsy will determine whether the suspicious tissues are cancerous or benign.
Breast Cancer Medical Testing Center in The Bronx, NY
If you’re looking for a medical testing center or scanning facility in The Bronx, look no further than Starling Diagnostics. Our experienced team has the latest diagnostic equipment right here in our medical center for breast cancer testing, and we also provide a full spectrum of women’s healthcare and checkups by female doctors.
We perform all the tests listed here, so you can be sure that you’ll get the detailed and accurate results you need. You can find us conveniently located on East Avenue in The Bronx, New York.
If you would like to request an appointment, fill out our online request form now or call our friendly staff at (718) 319-1610. We look forward to being your partner in health!
