Expert View Of Breast Cancer
| Posted in Finance | Posted on 20-06-2008
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Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in women. Consequently, women should become actively involved in routine breast screening. This protocol includes monthly self-examinations, a yearly examination by a healthcare professional, and an annual mammogram beginning at age 40. Women with strong family histories of breast or gynecologic cancer, a personal history of cancer, or other risk factors, may require earlier and more frequent examinations. Any abnormality identified on physical exam or mammography will require additional investigation. Often, your physician will order tests such as ultrasound or MRI to further characterize these findings.
When necessary, a tissue sample of the area in question will need to be obtained. If a lump can be felt in the breast, or if it can be seen on ultrasound, this area can easily be sampled in the office under ultrasound guidance using an automated core biopsy device. This requires no sedation or sutures, and is very accurate in acquiring tissue for the pathologist to examine. If the area in question can only be identified on mammography, then a sample must be taken either by a stereotatctic biopsy performed in the radiology department, or by a needle localized biopsy performed under sedation in the operating room. Your surgeon will discuss your options thoroughly, and assist you in making decisions regarding the type of biopsy best suited to your situation. The good news is that the majority of biopsies performed for suspicious areas in the breast prove to be benign (non-cancerous) lesions. The goal of breast screening is to identify breast cancer early, for early detection gives the best opportunity for cure.












































