Most breast masses in children are not cancer. When breast cancer occurs in children, treatment options include surgery and radiation therapy. Learn more about the risk factors, symptoms, tests to diagnose, and treatment of childhood breast cancer.
Mother and Daughter
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About
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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What Is Childhood Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast.
The breast is made up of lobes and ducts. Each breast has 15 to 20 sections calledlobes. Each lobe has many smaller sections called lobules. Lobules end in dozens of tiny bulbs thatcan make milk. The lobes, lobules, and bulbs are linked by thin tubes calledducts.
Breast cancer can occur in the breast tissue of both male and female children.
Anatomy of the female breast. The nipple and areola are shown on the outside of the breast. The lymph nodes, lobes, lobules, ducts, and other parts of the inside of the breast are also shown.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among females aged 15 to 39 years; but less than 5% of all breast cancers occur in females in this age group. Breast cancer in females aged 15 to 39 years is more aggressive and more difficult to treat than in older women. Treatments for younger and older women are similar. Younger patients with breast cancer may have genetic counseling (a discussion with a trained professional about inherited diseases) and testing for family cancer syndromes. Also, the possible effects of treatment on fertility should be considered.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
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Breast Cancer Campaign advert
Howard Lake
Types
Mammography showing fibroadenomas
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Mammography showing fibroadenomas
In the maography, multiple nodes are observed, with characteristics of BR3 lesions. You must inform yourself as BR0 to continue with your evaluation. The ultrasound showed solid, hypoechoic and homogeneous lesions, without posterior acoustic changes, compatible with fibroadenomas. The definitive category is BR3.
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What Types of Breast Tumors Are Seen in Children?
Most breast tumors in children are fibroadenomas (not cancer).
Fibroadenomas are benign tumors. Rarely, these tumors become large phyllodes tumors (cancer) and begin to grow quickly. If a benign tumor begins to grow quickly, a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy or an excisional biopsy will be done. The tissues removed during the biopsy will be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Risk Factors
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA.
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BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA.
The breast cancer susceptibility genes BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 normally help prevent cancer by repairing damaged DNA. Certain inherited mutations in these genes, however, can impair this function and result in a greatly increased risk of breast cancer or ovarian cancer (there are hundreds of different BRCA mutations, but are very rare or not linked with an increased risk of cancer). Of 200,000 women diagnosed each year with breast cancer and 20,000 diagnosed with ovarian cancer, 5-10% are due to BRCA mutations.
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What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults?
Radiation therapy to the breast or chest to treat a previous cancer increases the risk of breast cancer.
Anything that increases your chance of getting a diseaseis called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; not having risk factors doesn't mean that you will not get cancer. Talk with your child's doctor if you think your child may be at risk for breast cancer.
Risk factors for breast cancer in children, adolescents, and young adults include the following:
Past treatment with radiation therapy to the breast or chest for another cancer, such as Hodgkin lymphoma.
Having a personal history of a type of cancer that may spread to the breast, such as leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma, soft tissue sarcoma, or lymphoma.
A family history of breast cancer in a mother, father, sister, or brother.
Inherited changes in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene or in other genes that increase the risk of breast cancer.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
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BRCA Genes
The BRCA genes are tumor suppressor genes pictured here on their respective chromosomes. BRCA 1 has the cytogenetic location 17q21 or the q arm of Chromosome 17 at position 21. BRCA 2 has the cytogenetic location 13q12.3 or the q arm of Chromosome 13 at position 12.3. Both genes produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA, keeping the genetic material of the cell stable. A damaged BRCA gene in either location can lead to increased risk of cancer, particularly breast or ovarian in women.
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BRCA Genes
Tessssa13/Wikimedia
Symptoms
BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 Genes, Breast Cancer
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BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 Genes, Breast Cancer
More than 225,000 cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed annually in the U.S. and 40,000 die from the disease. In recent years, however, great strides have been made in early diagnosis and treatment. Imaging techniques have been refined to spot ever-tinier tumors, biomarkers have been developed to reflect physiological changes produced by cancer, and genetic tests such as those for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have been devised to identify increased familial risk of breast cancer. The majority of breast cancers start in the mammary ducts; most of the remainder arise in the lobules. Breast cancers are divided into in situ and invasive cancers. In situ cancers remain confined to the duct or gland where they began. Invasive cancers break through the walls of the duct or gland and penetrate into the surrounding tissue.
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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer in Children?
Signs of breast cancer include a lump or thickening in or near the breast.
These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by breast cancer or by other conditions.
Check with your child's doctor if your child has any of the following:
A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area.
A change in the size or shape of the breast.
A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast.
A nipple turned inward into the breast.
Fluid, other than breast milk, from the nipples, including blood.
Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin that is around the nipple).
Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange, called peaud’orange.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Diagnosis
Mammography
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Mammography
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How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed in Children?
Tests that examine the breast are used to diagnose breast cancer.
The following tests and procedures may be used:
Physical exam and health history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient’s health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.
Clinical breast exam (CBE): An exam of the breast by a doctor or other health professional. The doctor will carefully feel the breast and under the arm for lumps or anything else that seems unusual.
Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast. When treatment for another cancer included radiation therapy to the breast or chest, it is important to have a mammogram and MRI of the breast to check for breast cancer. These should be done beginning at age 25, or 10 years after finishing radiation therapy, whichever is later.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of both breasts. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).
Ultrasound exam: A procedure in which high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram. The picture can be printed to be looked at later.
PET scan (positron emission tomography scan): A procedure to find malignant tumor cells in the body. A small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein. The PET scanner rotates around the body and makes a picture of where glucose is being used in the body. Malignant tumor cells show up brighter in the picture because they are more active and take up more glucose than normal cells do.Positron emission tomography (PET) scan. The child lies on a table that slides through the PET scanner. The head rest and white strap help the child lie still. A small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into the child's vein, and a scanner makes a picture of where the glucose is being used in the body. Cancer cells show up brighter in the picture because they take up more glucose than normal cells do.
Blood chemistry studies: A procedure in which a blood sample is checked to measure the amounts of certain substances released into the blood by organs and tissues in the body. An unusual (higher or lower than normal) amount of a substance can be a sign of disease.
Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
Biopsy: The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Clinical Breast Exam
Breast Exam
Also called: Clinical Breast Exam, CBE
A clinical breast exam (CBE) is a physical exam of the breast performed by a health care provider to check for lumps or other changes. It’s often done during your regular medical check-up. If a CBE is not offered at your check-up and you would like one, ask your health care provider to perform one (or refer you to someone who can).
Breast Exam
Also called: Clinical Breast Exam, CBE
A clinical breast exam (CBE) is a physical exam of the breast performed by a health care provider to check for lumps or other changes. It’s often done during your regular medical check-up. If a CBE is not offered at your check-up and you would like one, ask your health care provider to perform one (or refer you to someone who can).
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Your result is Normal.
A normal result means that the nipples, breast tissue, and areas around the breast look normal and are normal in size and shape. A normal result does not mean that breast cancer is not present. Depending on your age and your personal and family history of breast cancer, your health care provider may do other tests, such as a mammogram.
Related conditions
PDQ® Screening and Prevention Editorial Board. PDQ Breast Cancer Screening. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute. [accessed on Jan 15, 2022]
Breast Exam | Michigan Medicine [accessed on Jan 15, 2022]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hands examining her. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hands examining her. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hands examining. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hands examining. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hand examining. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hands examining. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up with a doctors hands examining. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
This is a series of 16 photos demonstrating the 16 steps of a clinical breast examination. The image shows a female nude from the waist up. The steps are as follows: 1) arms in normal position 2) arms on hips 3) pressed forward elbows 4) pressed forward 5) arms overhead 6) arms overhead 7) arms raised and pressing down 8) exam of cervical nodes 9) exam of supraclavicular 10) infraclavicular 11) axilla 12) exam of breast 13) axilla 14) breast exam 15) exam of nipple 16) exam of nipple for discharge.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
National Cancer Institute / Photogroup (Photographer)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
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Breast Exam (Series of 16)
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Mammogram
Mammogram
Also called: Breast Cancer Screening - Mammography, Screening Mammography, Diagnostic Mammography
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray picture of the breast. A mammogram is used to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.
Mammogram
Also called: Breast Cancer Screening - Mammography, Screening Mammography, Diagnostic Mammography
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray picture of the breast. A mammogram is used to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.
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Your result is Negative.
This score confirms that your mammogram results are negative, indicating that the breast tissue shows no signs of a mass or calcifications. However, it’s important to continue regular screening mammograms.
Related conditions
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for changes that are not normal. The results are recorded on x-ray film or directly into a computer for a doctor called a radiologist to examine.
A mammogram allows the doctor to have a closer look for changes in breast tissue that cannot be felt during a breast exam. It is used for women who have no breast complaints and for women who have breast symptoms, such as a change in the shape or size of a breast, a lump, nipple discharge, or pain. Breast changes occur in almost all women. In fact, most of these changes are not cancer and are called "benign," but only a doctor can know for sure. Breast changes can also happen monthly, due to your menstrual period.
Screening mammograms are done for women who have no symptoms of breast cancer. It usually involves two x-rays of each breast. Screening mammograms can detect lumps or tumors that cannot be felt. They can also find microcalcifications or tiny deposits of calcium in the breast, which sometimes mean that breast cancer is present.
Diagnostic mammograms are used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other symptom or sign of breast cancer has been found. Signs of breast cancer may include pain, thickened skin on the breast, nipple discharge, or a change in breast size or shape. This type of mammogram also can be used to find out more about breast changes found on a screening mammogram, or to view breast tissue that is hard to see on a screening mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram takes longer than a screening mammogram because it involves more x-rays in order to obtain views of the breast from several angles. The technician can magnify a problem area to make a more detailed picture, which helps the doctor make a correct diagnosis.
A digital mammogram also uses x-rays to produce an image of the breast, but instead of storing the image directly on film, the image is stored directly on a computer. This allows the recorded image to be magnified for the doctor to take a closer look. Current research has not shown that digital images are better at showing cancer than x-ray film images in general. But, women with dense breasts who are pre- or perimenopausal, or who are younger than age 50, may benefit from having a digital rather than a film mammogram. Digital mammography may offer these benefits:
Long-distance consultations with other doctors may be easier because the images can be shared by computer.
Slight differences between normal and abnormal tissues may be more easily noted.
The number of follow-up tests needed may be fewer.
Fewer repeat images may be needed, reducing exposure to radiation.
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for changes that are not normal. A mammogram allows the doctor to have a closer look for changes in breast tissue that cannot be felt during a breast exam. Women ages 50 to 74 years should get a mammogram every 2 years. Women younger than age 50 should talk to a doctor about when to start and how often to have a mammogram.
Mammograms can not find all problems. So, every woman should work with her doctor to check her breasts. Call your doctor or clinic if you notice any change in your breasts like:
a lump
thickening
liquid leaking from the nipple or changes in how the nipple looks
You will need to take off your shirt and bra and stand in front of a special x-ray machine. The person who takes the x-rays, called a radiologic technician, places your breasts, one at a time, between an x-ray plate and a plastic plate. These plates are attached to the x-ray machine and compress the breasts to flatten them. This spreads the breast tissue out to obtain a clearer picture. You will feel pressure on your breast for a few seconds. It may cause you some discomfort; you might feel squeezed or pinched. This feeling only lasts for a few seconds, and the flatter your breast, the better the picture. Most often, two pictures are taken of each breast — one from the side and one from above. A screening mammogram takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.
First, check with the place you are having the mammogram for any special instructions you may need to follow before you go. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
If you are still having menstrual periods, try to avoid making your mammogram appointment during the week before your period. Your breasts will be less tender and swollen. The mammogram will hurt less and the picture will be better.
If you have breast implants, be sure to tell your mammography facility that you have them when you make your appointment.
Wear a shirt with shorts, pants, or a skirt. This way, you can undress from the waist up and leave your shorts, pants, or skirt on when you get your mammogram.
Don't wear any deodorant, perfume, lotion, or powder under your arms or on your breasts on the day of your mammogram appointment. These things can make shadows show up on your mammogram.
If you have had mammograms at another facility, have those x-ray films sent to the new facility so that they can be compared to the new films.
Tell the clinic if you have physical disabilities that may make it hard for you to sit up, lift your arms, or hold your breath.
Talk with the staff about how they will handle issues of modesty that you may have due to your religion.
Because mammography uses x-rays to produce images of the breast, patients are exposed to a small amount of ionizing radiation. For most women, the benefits of regular mammograms outweigh the risks posed by this amount of radiation. The risk associated with this dose appears to be greater among younger women (under age 40). However, in some cases, the benefits of using mammography to detect breast cancer under age 40 may outweigh the risks of radiation exposure. For example, a mammogram may reveal that a suspicious mass is benign and, therefore, doesn’t need to be treated. Additionally, if a tumor is malignant and is caught early by mammogram, a surgeon may be able to remove it before it spreads and requires more aggressive treatment such as chemotherapy.
Routine screening mammography is not done during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
You will usually get the results within a few weeks, although it depends on the facility. A radiologist reads your mammogram and then reports the results to you and your doctor. If there is a concern, you will hear from the mammography facility earlier. Contact your health care provider or the mammography facility if you do not receive a report of your results within 30 days.
Breast tissue that shows no signs of a mass or calcifications is considered normal. Most abnormal findings on a screening mammogram turn out to be benign (not cancer) or nothing to worry about. New findings or changes must be further evaluated.
What can mammograms show?
The radiologist will look at your x-rays for breast changes that do not look normal and for differences in each breast. He or she will compare your past mammograms with your most recent one to check for changes. The doctor will also look for lumps and calcifications.
Possible mammogram findings include:
Lumps (mass or tumor). Lumps come in different sizes and shapes. Fluid-filled cysts are usually smooth and rounded, with clear, defined edges and are not cancer. Lumps that have a jagged outline and an irregular shape are of more concern.
Calcifications. There are two types of breast calcifications, or calcium deposits:
Macrocalcifications, which look like small white dots on a mammogram. They are often caused by aging, an old injury, or inflammation and are usually benign.
Microcalcifications, which look like white specks on a mammogram. If found in an area of rapidly dividing cells or grouped together in a certain way, they may be a sign of DCIS or breast cancer.
Dense breast tissue: A dense breast has relatively less fat and more glandular and connective tissue. This mammogram finding is both common and normal, especially among younger women and women who use menopausal hormone therapy. Dense breast tissue can make a mammogram more difficult to interpret because both dense breast tissue and breast tumors appear as solid white areas in the image.
What happens if my mammogram is normal?
Continue to get mammograms according to recommended time intervals. Mammograms work best when they can be compared with previous ones. This allows the radiologist to compare them to look for changes in your breasts.
What happens if my mammogram is abnormal?
An abnormal mammogram does not always mean that there is cancer. But you will need to have additional mammograms, tests, or exams before the doctor can tell for sure. You may also be referred to a breast specialist or a surgeon. It does not necessarily mean you have cancer or need surgery. These doctors are experts in diagnosing breast problems. Doctors may order some of these tests:
Diagnostic mammogram, to focus on a specific area of the breast
Ultrasound, an imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of your breast. The pictures may show whether a lump is solid or filled with fluid. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac. Cysts are not cancer. But a solid mass may be cancer. After the test, your doctor can store the pictures on video or print them out. This exam may be used along with a mammogram.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses a powerful magnet linked to a computer. MRI makes detailed pictures of breast tissue. Your doctor can view these pictures on a monitor or print them on film. MRI may be used along with a mammogram.
Biopsy, a test in which fluid or tissue is removed from your breast to help find out if there is cancer. Your doctor may refer you to a surgeon or to a doctor who is an expert in breast disease for a biopsy.
What is the Breast Imaging Reporting and Database System (BI-RADS®)?
The American College of Radiology (ACR) has established a uniform way for radiologists to describe mammogram findings. The system, called BI-RADS, includes seven standardized categories, or levels. Each BI-RADS category has a follow-up plan associated with it to help radiologists and other physicians appropriately manage a patient’s care.
Breast Imaging Reporting and Database System (BI-RADS)
Category
Assessment
Follow-up
0
Need additional imaging evaluation
Additional imaging needed before a category can be assigned
1
Negative
Continue regular screening mammograms
2
Benign (noncancerous) finding
Continue regular screening mammograms
3
Probably benign
Receive a 6-month follow-up mammogram
4
Suspicious abnormality
May require biopsy
5
Highly suggestive of malignancy (cancer)
Requires biopsy
6
Known biopsy-proven malignancy (cancer)
Biopsy confirms presence of cancer before treatment begins
BI-RADS also includes four categories of breast density that may be reported. The radiologist who reads the mammogram chooses the category that best describes the level of breast density seen on the mammogram film. The categories, from the least amount of breast density to the highest, are as follows:
The breasts are almost entirely fatty
There are scattered areas of dense glandular tissue and fibrous connective tissue (together known as fibroglandular density)
The breasts are heterogeneously dense, which means they have more of these areas of fibroglandular density. This may make it hard to see small masses in the breast tissue on a mammogram.
The breasts are extremely dense, which makes it hard to see tumors in the breast tissue on a mammogram.
Many states in the U.S. have enacted laws requiring mammography providers to tell women if they have dense breasts (i.e., breasts that are heterogeneously or extremely dense on a mammogram) and to inform them of risks associated with having dense breasts. In addition to making mammograms harder to read, dense breasts are a risk factor for breast cancer.
Although they are not perfect, mammograms are the best method to find breast changes that cannot be felt. If your mammogram shows a breast change, sometimes other tests are needed to better understand it. Even if the doctor sees something on the mammogram, it does not mean it is cancer.
As with any medical test, mammograms have limits. These limits include:
They are only part of a complete breast exam. Your doctor also should do a clinical breast exam. If your mammogram finds something abnormal, your doctor will order other tests.
Finding cancer does not always mean saving lives. Even though mammography can detect tumors that cannot be felt, finding a small tumor does not always mean that a woman's life will be saved. Mammography may not help a woman with a fast growing cancer that has already spread to other parts of her body before being found.
False negatives can happen. This means everything may look normal, but cancer is actually present. False negatives don't happen often. Younger women are more likely to have a false negative mammogram than are older women. The dense breasts of younger women make breast cancers harder to find in mammograms.
False positives can happen. This is when the mammogram results look like cancer is present, even though it is not. False positives are more common in younger women, women who have had breast biopsies, women with a family history of breast cancer, and women who are taking estrogen, such as menopausal hormone therapy.
Mammograms (as well as dental x-rays and other routine x-rays) use very small doses of radiation. The risk of any harm is very slight, but repeated x-rays could cause cancer. The benefits nearly always outweigh the risk. Talk to your doctor about the need for each x-ray. Ask about shielding to protect parts of the body that are not in the picture. You should always let your doctor and the technician know if there is any chance that you are pregnant.
https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/mammograms [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/mammography [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/mammograms.htm [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/mammograms-fact-sheet [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/breast-changes#ui-id-4 [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForWomen/WomensHealthTopics/ucm117967.htm [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003380.htm [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.healthline.com/health/birads-score [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/Files/RADS/BI-RADS/Mammography-Reporting.pdf [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (48)
Mammography Fact Sheet
Mammography is an x-ray imaging method used to examine the breast for the early detection of cancer and other breast diseases. It is used as both a diagnostic and screening tool.
Document by www.nibib.nih.gov
Mammograms
Document by Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Top Four Mammogram Myths
Knowing the truth about mammograms could help save your life, or the life of someone you love. Over 60% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed before they spread. Nearly 90% of women who find and treat their breast cancer are cancer-free at five years. Mammograms can help reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer among women ages 40 to 70.
Image by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Screening for Cancer
Common Screening Tests and American Cancer Society Recommendations
Image by TheVisualMD
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Mammography
A woman getting a mammogram, showing a cone in position on her right breast.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Unknown Illustrator
Mammography
Image by BruceBlaus
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Mammogram
An adult female is assisted in a mammogram machine by an African-American technician.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Alan Hoofring (Illustrator)
Woman Having Mammogram
Photograph of woman having mammogram. Mammograms are considered the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Mammography requires the breasts to be compressed between plates while the image is captured. Typically, two views are taken of the breast: cranial-caudal (top to bottom) and mediolateral oblique (angled side view).
Image by TheVisualMD
Mammography
Mammogram being conducted
Image by CDC
Woman Receives Mammogram
An African-American female technician positions a Caucasian woman at an imaging machine to receive a mammogram.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Woman Receives Mammogram
A Caucasian female technician positions an Asian woman at an imaging machine to receive a mammogram.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Woman Receives Mammogram
A Caucasian female technician positions a Hispanic woman at an imaging machine to receive a mammogram.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Woman Receives Mammogram
An Asian female technician positions an African-American woman at an imaging machine to receive a mammogram.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Mammography Patient
A female technician prepares to give an older Caucasian female patient a mammogram. the patient is preparing for the exam next to machine with technician in background adjusting controls.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography
A woman's breast being compressed to get the optimum mammographic image.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography
A Caucasian female patient, while sitting, is receiving a mammogram with a technician is standing in the background. The conical tip is compressing the right breast and the left breast is visible. Note the older machine.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
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Mammography
A Caucasian female patient receives a lateral mammogram treatment. She is lying on her left side with the left breast compressed and she is holding her right breast out of the way so as to not block the x-ray. Note the older methods of the diagnostic procedure.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
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Mammography
A female Caucasian radiology technician preparing a 42 year old Caucasian woman for a mammogram. The technician is positioning the paddle that compresses the breast. The patient's face is turned towards the technician, away from the camera, and her right shoulder and breast are exposed.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography
A female Caucasian radiology technician preparing a 42 year old Caucasian woman for a mammogram. The technician is positioning the paddle used to compress the breast. The patient's face is turned towards the technician, away from the camera, with her right shoulder and breast are exposed.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography Patient
A female Caucasian radiology technician preparing a 42 year old Caucasian woman for a mammogram. The technician is positioning the paddle used to compress the breast. The patient's face is turned towards the technician, away from the camera. Her right shoulder is raised obscuring the breast.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
Male Breast Cancer
Senior Airman Elisabeth Stone compresses a male patient's breast tissue during a baseline screening of mammogram at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska
Image by Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera
Doctor Viewing Mammogram
A doctor examines mammograms on a view box.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (photographer)
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Mammogram Showing Dense And Fatty Breasts
Title Mammogram Showing Dense And Fatty Breasts Description A side-by-side of two normal mammograms showing the difference between a dense breast (left) and a fatty breast (right). The dense breast is that of a woman aged 39, the fatty breast is that of a 59-year old woman. Abnormal lesions are easier to detect and diagnose in a fatty breast making mammography more accurate.
Image by Dr. Kathy Cho. NIH Radiology / National Cancer Institute
Abnormal Mammogram
This abnormal mammogram is not necessarily cancerous. Also seen are calcifications through ductal patterns. Patient would be avised to have follow-up at 3-month intervals.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
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Mammogram vs. MRI
A mammography on left and a Magnetic resonance image (MRI) on right. Breast imaging technology has changed over the years. Note MRI's enhancement ability to confirm diagnosis.
Image by Mitchell D. Schnall, M.D., Ph.D. University Of Pennsylvania / Unknown Photographer
Bilateral digital mammography images of the breasts
Bilateral digital mammography images of the breasts; mediolateral oblique view.
Normal (left) versus cancerous (right) mammography image.
Normal (left) versus cancerous (right) mammography image.
Image by National Cancer Institute
Duct ectasia of breast
Detail of a mammography showing liponecrosis (round/oval calcifications) and plasma cell mastitis with typical rod-like calcifications
Image by Hellerhoff
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Mammogram - Normal
Breast tomosynthesis (3D Mammography) of the left craniocaudal.
Image by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram - Normal
Breast tomosynthesis (3D Mammography) of the left craniocaudal projection.
Image by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram - Normal
Breast tomosynthesis (3D Mammography) of the left craniocaudal reconstruction.
Image by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram - Normal
Breast tomosynthesis (3D Mammography) of the left mediolateral oblique projection.
Image by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram Showing Dense And Fatty Breasts
A side-by-side of two normal mammograms showing the difference between a dense breast (left) and a fatty breast (right). The dense breast is that of a woman aged 39, the fatty breast is that of a 59-year old woman. Abnormal lesions are easier to detect and diagnose in a fatty breast making mammography more accurate.
Image by Dr. Kathy Cho. NIH Radiology / Unknown Photographer
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Thermography of breast
Image by FDA
Mammograms vs Breast Ultrasounds
Video by Lee Health/Vimeo
Breast Density: Higher Risk & New Screening Options
Video by Breast Cancer School for Patients/YouTube
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Mammography: NCI B-roll [video]
NCI B-roll of female patient (simulated) receiving a digital mammogram. This video is intentionally silent. This footage, which was filmed at Sibley Memorial Hospital (a Johns Hopkins affiliate institution), includes images of a technician setting up the equipment, a Caucasian female being positioned to receive a mammogram, and mammography images of of dense breasts and fatty breasts. Downloadable video files are 960x540 at 30 fps. This image is part of the NCI B-Roll Videos collection.
View video using embedded player on this page or at youtube.com.
Video by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
What to Expect -- Digital Mammography
Video by Hologic, Inc./YouTube
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Mammography
Breast radiologist Dr.Gillian Newstead of the University of Chicago Medical Center explains the process of a typical mammogram screening.
Video by TheVisualMD
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Breast Density
Women with dense breast tissue often require a further look with ultrasound for screening. University of Chicago Medical Center breast radiologist Dr. Gillian Newstead and a breast cancer survivor with dense breast tissue explain.
Video by TheVisualMD
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Breast Cancer Screening & Diagnosis
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the U.S., with about 1 in 8 women developing the disease within her lifetime. Breast cancer is an uncontrolled growth of breast cells that has the potential to spread into the breast and possibly to other parts of the body. Early detection through screening saves the lives of thousands of women every year. If there is a history of breast cancer in the family, women should consider the BReast CAncer susceptibility test (or BRCA) to identify a gene that may indicate an increased risk of developing the disease. Women forty and over should be screened for abnormalities yearly to detect and evaluate changes in breast tissue. If an abnormality is found, a biopsy and pathological exam are necessary for a definitive diagnosis and prognosis. After diagnosis, your doctor may want to learn more about your specific cancer through immunohistochemistry (IHC) and HER2 protein tests. IHC testing can help determine if a specific abnormality is present in the cancer cells. HER2 tests can tell your physician if the breast cancer is turned on by the HER2 gene, and can help determine the best course of treatment. Knowing what type of breast cancer is involved, what stage the cancer is, and the characteristics of that specific cancer, allows a woman's physician to determine best possible therapy for her individual case.
Video by TheVisualMD
A closer look at modern mammography
Video by Siemens Healthineers/YouTube
Mammogram
A mammographic image is displayed on state of the art mammography monitors at the David Grant USAF Medical Center. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Liliana Moreno)
Image by U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Liliana Moreno
Nipple Aspirate Test No Substitute for Mammogram
Some companies are marketing a new test—the nipple aspirate test—as the latest and greatest tool in early breast cancer screening. But FDA warns that the nipple aspirate test is no substitute for a mammogram.
Image by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Do More Screening Tests Lead to Better Health? Choosing Wisely
Video by DocMikeEvans/YouTube
New Guidelines for Mammograms
Video by Lee Health/Vimeo
Mammogram questions | Mercy Health
Video by Bon Secours Mercy Health/Vimeo
Getting Screened for Breast Cancer
Video by Lee Health/Vimeo
Mammography Fact Sheet
www.nibib.nih.gov
Mammograms
Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Top Four Mammogram Myths
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Screening for Cancer
TheVisualMD
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Mammography
National Cancer Institute / Unknown Illustrator
Mammography
BruceBlaus
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Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Alan Hoofring (Illustrator)
Woman Having Mammogram
TheVisualMD
Mammography
CDC
Woman Receives Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Woman Receives Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Woman Receives Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Woman Receives Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Rhoda Baer (Photographer)
Mammography Patient
National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography
National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography
National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
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Mammography
National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
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Mammography
National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography
National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
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Mammography Patient
National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (Photographer)
Male Breast Cancer
Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera
Doctor Viewing Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Bill Branson (photographer)
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Mammogram Showing Dense And Fatty Breasts
Dr. Kathy Cho. NIH Radiology / National Cancer Institute
Abnormal Mammogram
National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
Sensitive content
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Mammogram vs. MRI
Mitchell D. Schnall, M.D., Ph.D. University Of Pennsylvania / Unknown Photographer
Bilateral digital mammography images of the breasts
Normal (left) versus cancerous (right) mammography image.
National Cancer Institute
Duct ectasia of breast
Hellerhoff
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Mammogram - Normal
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram - Normal
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram - Normal
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram - Normal
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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Mammogram Showing Dense And Fatty Breasts
Dr. Kathy Cho. NIH Radiology / Unknown Photographer
Sensitive content
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Thermography of breast
FDA
1:51
Mammograms vs Breast Ultrasounds
Lee Health/Vimeo
8:30
Breast Density: Higher Risk & New Screening Options
Breast Cancer School for Patients/YouTube
2:39
Mammography: NCI B-roll [video]
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
4:07
What to Expect -- Digital Mammography
Hologic, Inc./YouTube
0:37
Mammography
TheVisualMD
0:43
Breast Density
TheVisualMD
4:57
Breast Cancer Screening & Diagnosis
TheVisualMD
3:37
A closer look at modern mammography
Siemens Healthineers/YouTube
Mammogram
U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Liliana Moreno
Nipple Aspirate Test No Substitute for Mammogram
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
10:18
Do More Screening Tests Lead to Better Health? Choosing Wisely
DocMikeEvans/YouTube
1:41
New Guidelines for Mammograms
Lee Health/Vimeo
1:08
Mammogram questions | Mercy Health
Bon Secours Mercy Health/Vimeo
1:45
Getting Screened for Breast Cancer
Lee Health/Vimeo
Ultrasound
Breast Ultrasound
Also called: Breast Ultrasonography, Breast Sonogram, Ultrasound - Breast
A breast ultrasound is a noninvasive, painless, and risk-free imaging test in which an ultrasound machine is used to evaluate your breast tissue.
Breast Ultrasound
Also called: Breast Ultrasonography, Breast Sonogram, Ultrasound - Breast
A breast ultrasound is a noninvasive, painless, and risk-free imaging test in which an ultrasound machine is used to evaluate your breast tissue.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Normal.
A normal result means that no abnormalities or masses were found in your breast tissue.
Related conditions
A breast ultrasound is an imaging test that uses an ultrasound machine to evaluate your breasts.
This test is most helpful to differentiate a solid mass (such as a tumor) from a fluid-filled mass (such as a cyst).
Your doctor may want to order this test in the following situations:
As the first test to examine young women (usually less than 35-year-old) who have breast symptoms, such as pain, lumps, or abnormal nipple discharge
As a follow-up test if a clinical breast exam or mammogram has revealed an abnormality
To evaluate breast tissue that is obscured by breast implants
To evaluate breast tissue in pregnant women
To guide the placement of a needle during breast biopsies
It is important to point out that a breast ultrasound is not usually done to screen for breast cancer because some early signs of cancer can be easily missed with this test.
You will be asked to remove your bra and lie down on your back with your chest exposed. Then, a healthcare practitioner will place a triangular sponge behind your shoulder, so that you are slightly tilted onto your side.
Then, a water-based gel will be applied on the skin of one of your breasts, and a small probe will be used to visualize your breast tissue on a screen. This will be repeated on the other breast as well.
Your axilla (armpit) will also be examined during the test to assess for any lumps or enlarged lymph glands.
The procedure usually takes no more than 30 minutes, and there is no need for an anesthetic because it’s painless.
No special preparations are needed. You may want to wear a two-piece outfit so that only your top has to be removed during the test.
There are no risks related to a breast ultrasound test.
A normal result means that no abnormalities or masses were found in your breast tissue.
An abnormal result indicates that a problem was detected, including but not limited to:
Cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs
Solid tumors, which can be cancerous or non-cancerous
Fibroadenomas (non-cancerous solid growths)
Lipomas (non-cancerous fatty tumors)
This test can provide information about the location, size, and structure of breast tumors, but cannot provide a definite diagnosis of cancer.
https://www.insideradiology.com.au/breast-ultrasound/ [accessed on Mar 12, 2019]
https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/breast-ultrasound [accessed on Mar 12, 2019]
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/gynecology/breast_ultrasound_92,p07764 [accessed on Mar 12, 2019]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003379.htm [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/Ultrasound.html [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/breast/nys_breast_cancer_faqs.htm [accessed on Feb 16, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (7)
Diagnosing Breast Cancer
If a woman has symptoms of breast cancer (such as a lump), or if a suspicious area is found in an imaging exam, the next step is to physically examine the breasts by noting any changes in their appearance and palpating the breast and the underarm region. A complete physical exam may be done as well. If symptoms or results of these exams suggest cancer might be present, then further tests will be done. (Note: The following diagnostic procedures are common to the US; procedures may vary in other countries.)
Image by TheVisualMD
Tubular carcinoma of breast ultrasound
Ultrasound images of tubular carcinoma of breast. Tonemapped
A breast biopsy is a test that can confirm or rule out breast cancer. It is used if other breast tests or a physical exam show you might have breast cancer. There are three main types of breast biopsy procedures: fine-needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, and surgical biopsy.
Breast Biopsy
Also called: Biopsy of the Breast
A breast biopsy is a test that can confirm or rule out breast cancer. It is used if other breast tests or a physical exam show you might have breast cancer. There are three main types of breast biopsy procedures: fine-needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, and surgical biopsy.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Normal.
A normal biopsy means that no cancer or abnormal cells were found.
Related conditions
A breast biopsy is a procedure that removes a sample of breast tissue so that it can be checked for signs of disease. A doctor called a pathologist looks at the tissue under a microscope to diagnose breast cancer and other breast diseases.
Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the milk ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and the lobules (the small lobes of breast tissue that make milk). Breast cancer is much more common in women, but men can get it, too. Not much is known about breast cancer risk in transgender people. If you are transgender, talk with your provider about your risk.
There are different ways to do a breast biopsy. Some methods remove breast tissue with a needle and others use a small incision (cut) in your skin to remove part or all of the suspicious tissue.
Most people who need a breast biopsy don't have cancer.
Other names: core needle biopsy; core biopsy, breast; fine-needle aspiration; open surgery biopsy
A breast biopsy is the only way to find out whether a suspicious change in your breast is cancer. You may have a biopsy after other breast tests, such as a physical breast exam or a mammogram, show signs that could be breast cancer.
You may need a breast biopsy if:
You or your health care provider felt a lump, thickening, or other change in your breast.
A mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI test shows a lump, calcium deposits, or other signs that might mean cancer.
The skin on your breast or nipple is red, scaly, or swollen, or your nipple is pulled inward.
You have a discharge of abnormal fluid coming from your nipple.
If your provider suggests that you have a breast biopsy, it doesn't mean you have breast cancer. Most breast lumps and other changes that are checked with biopsies turn out to be benign, which means they are not cancer.
There are three main types of breast biopsy procedures. They are usually done on an outpatient basis, which means you go home the same day:
Fine needle aspiration biopsy uses a very thin needle to remove a sample of breast cells or fluid. The biopsy takes about 15 minutes.
Core needle biopsy uses a wide needle to remove one or more small tissue samples about the size of a grain of rice. Sometimes a small vacuum probe is used instead of a needle. The device gently suctions some tissue and removes it with a small rotating blade. A core needle biopsy takes between 15 minutes and an hour, depending on how it's done.
Surgical biopsy (or open biopsy) is surgery to remove all or part of a lump. The biopsy usually takes about an hour.
Biopsies are often done using mammography, ultrasound, MRI, or x-rays to help see exactly where to take the tissue sample. Your procedure will vary depending on which method is used to guide the biopsy, but the general steps are usually the same.
For a fine needle aspiration biopsy or a core needle biopsy:
Your provider will clean the skin on your breast and give you a shot of medicine to numb the area, so you won't feel any pain. The shot may sting briefly.
You may be sitting or lying down. If images are used to guide the biopsy, you may lie on your side, back, or belly with your breast over an opening on the table.
For a fine needle aspiration biopsy, your provider will insert the needle into the biopsy site and remove a sample of cells or fluid. For a core biopsy, a tiny cut may be made to insert a wide needle or a vacuum device. You may feel a little pressure when the sample or samples are removed.
Pressure will be applied to area until the bleeding stops.
Your provider will cover the biopsy site with a sterile bandage. If you had a small incision, small strips of medical tape may be used to close the wound.
For a surgical biopsy:
You'll lie on an operating table. You may have an IV (intravenous line) in your arm or hand that may be used to give you medicine to relax. The skin over the biopsy area will be cleaned.
To prevent pain, you'll have either:
A shot of medicine to numb your breast. The shot may sting briefly.
General anesthesia, which is medicine given through an IV to make you sleep.
When you are numb or asleep, the surgeon will make a small cut in your breast tissue to remove part or all of the lump. In certain cases, tissue around the lump may also be removed. This may help avoid the need for more surgery if cancer cells are found in the lump.
The cut in your skin will be closed with small strips of medical tape or stitches and covered with a sterile bandage.
The type of biopsy you have will depend on:
The size and location of the suspicious tissue in your breast
How many areas of your breast are involved
How abnormal the tissue looks on a mammogram or other image
Your general health and preferences
Ask your provider about why you need a biopsy and which type is right for you.
Your provider will give you instructions for how to prepare for your biopsy. If you take any blood thinners, including aspirin, you may need to stop taking them before your biopsy. Tell your provider about all the medicines and supplements you take. Don't stop or start taking anything without talking with your provider first.
If you're having general anesthesia, you will probably need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before surgery. If you have general anesthesia or medicine to relax, you may be groggy after the procedure, so plan to have someone take you home.
It's common to have some bruising and temporary discomfort after a breast biopsy. Possible risks include:
Infection, which can be treated with antibiotics
Bleeding
Your provider will give you instructions for how to care for biopsy area and manage any discomfort. If you're having general anesthesia, talk with your provider about how it may affect you. General anesthesia is very safe even for most people with other health conditions.
It may take several days to a week to get your biopsy results. The results are called a pathology report. The report is written for your provider and will include a lot of medical terms. Your provider can explain what your report means.
The most important part of your report will be the diagnosis. In general, your results will be one of these categories:
Normal. No cancer or abnormal cells were found.
Abnormal breast changes that aren't cancer and don't increase your risk for breast cancer. Some of these conditions often get better on their own and others may need treatment.
Abnormal breast changes that increase your risk for breast cancer. These cells are not cancer, but if you have them, you are more likely to develop cancer.
If you had a needle biopsy that diagnosed a condition that increases your breast cancer risk, you may need a surgical biopsy to remove all the abnormal tissue. To find out what you can do to reduce your breast cancer risk, you will likely see a doctor who specializes in breast cancer.
Breast cancer. If your biopsy finds cancer cells, your report will include details about how fast the cancer cells are growing, how much they look like normal cells, and other information to help plan the most effective treatment for your type of cancer. Usually, a doctor who specializes in breast cancer will provide your care.
Breast Biopsy: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Mar 22, 2022]
Having a Breast Biopsy | Effective Health Care (EHC) Program [accessed on Mar 22, 2022]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (13)
PreOp® Breast Biopsy Wire Guide Patient Education - Patient Engagement
Video by PreOp.com Patient Engagement - Patient Education/YouTube
How a core breast biopsy is taken
Video by Bupa Health UK/YouTube
Stereotactic Biopsies for Breast Evaluation | UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital
Video by UPMC/YouTube
What It’s Like to Get a Breast Biopsy
Video by RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
Ultrasound-guided core-needle breast biopsy
Video by Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics/YouTube
Having a breast biopsy. A review of the research for women and thier families (2016 report)
This information is right for you if: -- You are a woman. The information in this summary is from
research on women. -- Your doctor has found a breast lump or shadow on your mammogram and has recommended a breast biopsy.
Document by effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov
Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy 1
Ultrasound image of possible breast tumor before biopsy. The procedure is performed by a radiologist and sonographer. A local anesthetic is injected into the breast. The transducer is pressed to the breast and the suspicious area is located. The biopsy needle is inserted in the breast and guided in realtime by watching its movement through the breast on a computer monitor. The tissue sample is taken and the needle is removed.
Image by TheVisualMD
Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy 2
Ultrasound image of possible breast tumor showing core needle penetrating suspicious breast lesion during biopsy. The procedure is performed by a radiologist and sonographer. A local anesthetic is injected into the breast. The transducer is pressed to the breast and the suspicious area is located. The biopsy needle is inserted in the breast and guided in realtime by watching its movement through the breast on a computer monitor. The tissue sample is taken and the needle is removed.
Image by TheVisualMD
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Needle Biopsy
Adult Black female breast visible. Physician's hands are seen performing a needle biopsy to determine nature of lump either fluid-filled cyst or solid tumor.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Biopsy
A Caucasian woman patient is being operated on. Her nipple is being incised by the surgeon. The male surgeon and an operating room attendant are visible. A surgical biopsy is being performed to determine exact nature of solid tumor.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Breast Biopsy
Image Caption : Needle Breast Biopsy
Image by BruceBlaus
Mammotome
Mammotome probe - biopsy
Image by Waglione/Wikimedia
This browser does not support the video element.
Breast Cancer Biopsy
If a woman has symptoms of breast cancer (such as a lump), or if a suspicious area is found in an imaging exam, the next step is to physically examine the breasts by noting any changes in their appearance and palpating the breast and the underarm region. A complete physical exam may be done as well. If symptoms or results of these exams suggest cancer might be present, then further tests will be done. (Note: The following diagnostic procedures are common to the US; procedures may vary in other countries.)
Video by TheVisualMD
2:22
PreOp® Breast Biopsy Wire Guide Patient Education - Patient Engagement
Stereotactic Biopsies for Breast Evaluation | UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital
UPMC/YouTube
3:57
What It’s Like to Get a Breast Biopsy
RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
1:29
Ultrasound-guided core-needle breast biopsy
Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics/YouTube
Having a breast biopsy. A review of the research for women and thier families (2016 report)
effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov
Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy 1
TheVisualMD
Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy 2
TheVisualMD
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Needle Biopsy
National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Biopsy
National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Breast Biopsy
BruceBlaus
Mammotome
Waglione/Wikimedia
0:56
Breast Cancer Biopsy
TheVisualMD
Staging
Stage 1 - the cancer is small and only in the breast tissue or it might be found in lymph nodes close to the breast.
Stage 1 breast cancer has 2 groups: 1A and 1B.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 3 - the cancer has spread from the breast to lymph nodes close to the breast or to the skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage 3 - the cancer has spread from the breast to lymph nodes close to the breast or to the skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage 3 - the cancer has spread from the breast to lymph nodes close to the breast or to the skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage 3B breast cancer - Diagram 1 of 2
Stage 3B - the tumor has spread to the skin of the breast or the chest wall. It has made the skin break down (an ulcer) or caused swelling.
Stage 3C - the tumor can be any size, or there may be no tumor. But there is cancer in the skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer and it has spread to the chest wall.
Stage 3C - the tumor can be any size, or there may be no tumor. But there is cancer in the skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer and it has spread to the chest wall.
Stage 3C - the tumor can be any size, or there may be no tumor. But there is cancer in the skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer and it has spread to the chest wall.
Stage 4 Breast Cancer
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Number Staging System for Breast Cancer
Interactive by Cancer Research UK
Stage 1 - the cancer is small and only in the breast tissue or it might be found in lymph nodes close to the breast.
Stage 1 breast cancer has 2 groups: 1A and 1B.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 2 - the cancer is either in the breast or in the nearby lymph nodes or both.
Stage 3 - the cancer has spread from the breast to lymph nodes close to the breast or to the skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage 3 - the cancer has spread from the breast to lymph nodes close to the breast or to the skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage 3 - the cancer has spread from the breast to lymph nodes close to the breast or to the skin of the breast or to the chest wall.
Stage 3B breast cancer - Diagram 1 of 2
Stage 3B - the tumor has spread to the skin of the breast or the chest wall. It has made the skin break down (an ulcer) or caused swelling.
Stage 3C - the tumor can be any size, or there may be no tumor. But there is cancer in the skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer and it has spread to the chest wall.
Stage 3C - the tumor can be any size, or there may be no tumor. But there is cancer in the skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer and it has spread to the chest wall.
Stage 3C - the tumor can be any size, or there may be no tumor. But there is cancer in the skin of the breast, causing swelling or an ulcer and it has spread to the chest wall.
Stage 4 Breast Cancer
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Number Staging System for Breast Cancer
The number staging system for breast cancer divides breast cancers into 4 stages, from 1 to 4. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 means the cancer has spread to another part of the body.
Interactive by Cancer Research UK
Stages of Childhood Breast Cancer
There is no standard staging system for childhood breast cancer.
The process used to find out if cancer has spread from the breast to nearby areas or to other parts of the body is called staging. There is no standard staging system for childhood breast cancer. The results of tests and procedures done to diagnose breast cancer are used to help make decisions about treatment.
Sometimes childhood breast cancer recurs (comes back) in the breast or other parts of the body after treatment.
There are three ways cancer spreads in the body.
Cancer can spread through tissue, the lymph system, and the blood:
Tissue. The cancer spreads from where it began by growing into nearby areas.
Lymph system. The cancer spreads from where it began by getting into the lymph system. The cancer travels through the lymph vessels to other parts of the body.
Blood. The cancer spreads from where it began by getting into the blood. The cancer travels through the blood vessels to other parts of the body.
Cancer may spread from where it began to other parts of the body.
When cancer spreads to another part of the body, it is called metastasis. Cancer cells break away from where they began (the primary tumor) and travel through the lymph system or blood.
Lymph system. The cancer gets into the lymph system, travels through the lymph vessels, and forms a tumor (metastatic tumor) in another part of the body.
Blood. The cancer gets into the blood, travels through the blood vessels, and forms a tumor (metastatic tumor) in another part of the body.
The metastatic tumor is the same type of cancer as the primary tumor. For example, if breast cancer spreads to the bone, the cancer cells in the bone are actually breast cancer cells. The disease is metastatic breast cancer, not bone cancer.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy of the breast. The first of three panels shows a radioactive substance and/or blue dye injected near the tumor; the middle panel shows that the injected material is followed visually and/or with a probe that detects radioactivity to find the sentinel nodes (the first lymph nodes to take up the material); the third panel shows the removal of the tumor and the sentinel nodes to check for cancer cells.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy of the breast. A radioactive substance and/or blue dye is injected near the tumor (first panel). The injected material is detected visually and/or with a probe that detects radioactivity (middle panel). The sentinel nodes (the first lymph nodes to take up the material) are removed and checked for cancer cells (last panel).
What Are the Treatment Options for Childhood Breast Cancer?
There are different types of treatment for children and adolescents with breast cancer.
Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested in clinical trials. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment.
Because cancer in children is rare, taking part in a clinical trial should be considered. Some clinical trials are open only to patients who have not started treatment.
Children and adolescents with breast cancer should have their treatment planned by a team of doctors who are experts in treating childhood cancer.
Treatment will be overseen by a pediatric oncologist, a doctor who specializes in treating children with cancer. The pediatric oncologist works with other pediatric health professionals who are experts in treating children with cancer and who specialize in certain areas of medicine. This may include the following specialists and others:
Pediatrician.
Pediatric surgeon.
Radiation oncologist.
Pathologist.
Pediatric nurse specialist.
Social worker.
Rehabilitation specialist.
Psychologist.
Child-life specialist.
Two types of standard treatment are used for benign breast tumors:
Watchful waiting
Watchful waiting is closely monitoring a patient's condition without giving any treatment until signs or symptoms appear or change. Benign breast tumors may disappear without treatment.
Surgery
Surgery is done to remove the tumor, but not the whole breast.
Two types of standard treatment are used for breast cancer:
Surgery
Surgery is done to remove the cancer, but not the whole breast.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the area of the body with cancer.
New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials.
This summary section describes treatments that are being studied in clinical trials. It may not mention every new treatment being studied. Information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific cancer cells. Targeted therapies usually cause less harm to normal cells than chemotherapy or radiation therapy do.
Targeted therapy is being studied for the treatment of childhood breast cancer that has recurred (come back).
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Benign Tumors
Tumor Types - Benign and Malignant Tumor Cells
Image by WolfpackBME/Wikimedia
Tumor Types - Benign and Malignant Tumor Cells
Digital art of Benign and Malignant tumor cells.
Image by WolfpackBME/Wikimedia
Treatment of Benign Childhood Breast Tumors
Treatment of newly diagnosed benign breast tumors in children may include the following:
Watchful waiting. These tumors may disappear without treatment.
Surgery to remove the tumor.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Cross Section
Image by TheVisualMD
Breast Cancer Cross Section
Breast Cancer Cross Section - Medical visualization of an anteriolateral view of healthy breast tissue. The most common type of breast cancer is infiltrating ductal carcinoma (over 70%) which begins in the lining of the ducts, followed by inflitrating lobular carcinoma (over 10%) which orginates in the lobules, medullary carcinoma, tubular carcinoma, mucinous carcinoma, and inflammatory breast cancer. Breast cancer affects approximately one in 93 women by the age of 45, and over the course of a lifetime one in eight women will be diagnosed with the disease. Early detection is critical - survival rates for those diagnosed at early stages is greater than 90 percent. Annual mammograms are recommended for women over 40, as are regular self-exams and clinical exams for all women. Women with a family history of breast cancer, especially premenopausal occurrence, as well as those who test positive for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are at a higher lifetime risk for developing breast cancer and should start detection screening earlier. Men comprise one percent of breast cancer patients. 1 of 2.
Image by TheVisualMD
Treatment of Childhood Breast Cancer
Treatment of newly diagnosed breast cancer in children may include the following:
Surgery to remove the tumor, but not the whole breast. Radiation therapy may also be given.
Use our clinical trial search to find NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are accepting patients. You can search for trials based on the type of cancer, the age of the patient, and where the trials are being done.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Recurrent Cancer
Treatment of Recurrent Childhood Breast Cancer
Treatment of recurrent breast cancer in children may include the following:
A clinical trial that checks a sample of the patient's tumor for certain gene changes. The type of targeted therapy that will be given to the patient depends on the type of gene change.
Use our clinical trial search to find NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are accepting patients. You can search for trials based on the type of cancer, the age of the patient, and where the trials are being done.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Side Effects
Side Effects
Image by Sukhjinder
Side Effects
Side Effects
Image by Sukhjinder
What Are the Side Effects of Treatment for Childhood Breast Cancer?
Treatment for childhood breast cancer may cause side effects.
Side effects from cancer treatment that begin after treatment and continue for months or years are called late effects. Late effects of cancer treatment may include:
Physical problems.
Changes in mood, feelings, thinking, learning, or memory.
Second cancers (new types of cancer) or other conditions.
Some late effects may be treated or controlled. It is important to talk with your child's doctors about the possible late effects caused by some treatments.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Clinical Trials
Clinical Trial
Image by mcmurryjulie
Clinical Trial
Clinical Trials
Image by mcmurryjulie
Are There Clinical Trials for Childhood Breast Cancer?
Patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial.
For some patients, taking part in a clinical trial may be the best treatment choice. Clinical trials are part of the cancer research process. Clinical trials are done to find out if new cancer treatments are safe and effective or better than the standard treatment.
Many of today's standard treatments for cancer are based on earlier clinical trials. Patients who take part in a clinical trial may receive the standard treatment or be among the first to receive a new treatment.
Patients who take part in clinical trials also help improve the way cancer will be treated in the future. Even when clinical trials do not lead to effective new treatments, they often answer important questions and help move research forward.
Patients can enter clinical trials before, during, or after starting their cancer treatment.
Some clinical trials only include patients who have not yet received treatment. Other trials test treatments for patients whose cancer has not gotten better. There are also clinical trials that test new ways to stop cancer from recurring (coming back) or reduce the side effects of cancer treatment.
Clinical trials are taking place in many parts of the country. Information about clinical trials supported by NCI can be found on NCI’s clinical trials search webpage. Clinical trials supported by other organizations can be found on the ClinicalTrials.gov website.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
Follow-Up Tests
What Are the Follow-Up Tests for Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment?
Follow-up tests may be needed.
Some of the tests that were done to diagnose the cancer or to find out the stage of the cancer may be repeated. Some tests will be repeated in order to see how well the treatment is working. Decisions about whether to continue, change, or stop treatment may be based on the results of these tests.
Some of the tests will continue to be done from time to time after treatment has ended. The results of these tests can show if your child's condition has changed or if the cancer has recurred (come back). These tests are sometimes called follow-up tests or check-ups.
Source: PDQ® Pediatric Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Childhood Breast Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
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Childhood Breast Cancer
Most breast masses in children are not cancer. When breast cancer occurs in children, treatment options include surgery and radiation therapy. Learn more about the risk factors, symptoms, tests to diagnose, and treatment of childhood breast cancer.