There are several methods that a health care provider may use to evaluate changes in breast tissue.

Mammogram

The best tool for finding breast cancer is a mammogram. A mammogram is a picture of the breast that is made by using low-dose x-rays. It is currently recommended that women over age 40 receive a mammogram every 1 to 2 years.

 

Ultrasound

This procedure uses sound waves to make a picture of tissue. This picture is called a sonogram. It helps doctors look more closely at lumps. An ultrasound shows if a lump is solid or filled with fluid (cyst).

Biopsy

During a biopsy, a doctor removes some cells or tissue or even a whole lump. The tissue is sent to a lab where a pathologist checks the cells. Biopsies are the only way to find out if cells are cancer. Results are usually available within several days of the procedure.

The most common types of biopsies are:

• Fine-needle aspiration – most often used when a cyst is suspected. A needle and syringe are used to drain the tissue.
• Core needle biopsy – this uses a special needle that removes a core of tissue for analysis. A probe may be used to guide the needle to the correct spot.
• Stereotactic core needle biopsy. In this A three-dimensional (3-D) x-ray guides a biopsy needle to a lump or other change that cannot be felt on a breast exam.
• Surgical biopsy – this is an operation to remove part or all of a breast lump.