Diagnostic Mammogram in Royal Oak, MI

A diagnostic mammogram uses low dose x-ray to evaluate a breast concern or to "get a closer look" at a finding on a recent screening mammogram. The special views may use 3D mammography, magnification, or spot compression views to further characterize an area of interest. A breast complaint such as a lump, nipple discharge, or focal pain may require special diagnostic images to be interpreted by radiologists specialized in this field.

The purpose of the diagnostic mammogram is to distinguish normal structures that are components of the breast from abnormal lesions. A diagnostic mammogram can detect subtle differences in the cellular structure or patterns of the tissues. Mammogram abnormalities may present as distortion, masses, or small white spots called cluster microcalcifications. Obtaining a diagnostic mammogram provides the clearest images to characterize an abnormal finding.

On additional imaging evaluation, most abnormal mammogram findings will prove to be benign (noncancerous). However, diagnostic mammography imaging is necessary to distinguish these findings from malignancy (cancer). The radiologist can only render an opinion after obtaining the specialized imaging. For example, calcifications seen on a mammogram may be characterized as fibrocystic after additional imaging or may be characterized as cluster calcifications that require further workup. Most cluster calcifications are benign (noncancerous), but the closer look can help to distinguish these.

Screening mammography looks at "the big picture," while diagnostic mammography provides "the detail."