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Mammalogy

Breast cancer is the most common oncological disease among women worldwide.

 

It is one of the few types of cancer that can be detected in subclinical stages by means of active screening.

 

Early diagnosis leads to effective treatment, prolonged life expectancy, and reduced mortality rates.

 

Small breast lumps can be identified by the following diagnostic methods:

  • Self-examination;
  • Clinical examination;
  • Imaging studies (ultrasound and mammography).

 

Each of these methods is important from a prophylactic and diagnostic point of view, and its clinical value should not be underestimated.

 

Self-Examination

 

Every woman over 20 should develop the habit of regularly self-examining her breasts.

 

Self-examination should be performed once a month, after the end of the regular menstrual cycle, using moderate pressure in a lying position or while in the shower.

 

Symptoms requiring a doctor’s visit:

  • Detection of a "lump";
  • Nipple discharge (especially bloody);
  • Change in breast size;
  • Skin changes – thickening, redness, dimpling, or an "orange peel" appearance
  • Invertion of the nipple;
  • Detection of a lump under the armpit.

Clinical Examination

 

A comprehensive clinical examination involves inspection and palpatiion of both breasts and underarm areas.

 

It is typically performed by a general practitioner, surgeon, radiologist, or gynecologist.

 

This examination provides a preliminary clinical diagnosis and determines the necessity for further imaging investigation.

 

Small benign or malignant lumps, particularly in larger breasts, may not be detected by clinical examination alone.

 

Ultrasound Diagnosis (Breast Ultrasound)

 

Ultrasound is the first choice imaging modality for women with dense breasts.

 

It is also the first and most often sufficient diagnostic tool for women under 40. Ultrasound should be used in women of any age group whose breasts have high mammographic density, i.e. when mammography is less informative.

 

Ultrasound is frequently used to clarify findings already observed on mammography.

 

This method is widely available, cost-effective, painless, and harmless, there is no radiation exposure, making it suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

 

Modern ultrasound equipment provides detailed images of the breast anatomy. They allow visualization and categorization of benign or malignant lesions with sizes as small as 5-7 mm.

 

They also help determine the structure (fluid-filled or solid) and blood supply of the breast formation. 
 

 

 

A particular advantage of this method is the possibility to examine the axillary lymph nodes, which is an essential part of any breast ultrasound examination.

 

For women with breast implants, ultrasound is the preferred method for monitoring both breast tissue and implant integrity.

 

Additionally, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, such as cyst aspirations or biopsies, can be performed under ultrasound guidance.

 

For more information about the possibilities of performing a prophylactic breast ultrasound examination and make an appointment at MC MARKOVS you can contact your doctor or call at the registration desk.