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Breast Imaging Diagnostic mammogram's and other breast imaging questions. |
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| 5/13/2012 | I would like to thank you once again for providing this wonderful service. I am a 9 year survivor of stage 3 breast cancer. I have yearly breast MRIs and mammograms. This year I was told that since I am over 5 years out, my mammogram is a screening, rather than a diagnostic mammogram. The technician told me this when I remarked how quickly I was done and how I could simply leave, when in the past, I had many more views, compressions and then the agonizing wait while the radiologist went over everything. Since I had an appointment with my oncologist the same day as my MRI and mammogram, everything was read the same day and my oncologist told me everything was fine. I was so relieved to hear this, I didn't ask her about the screening vs diagnostic mammogram. The nurse told me it was more likely an insurance issue. What do you think about doing screening mammograms in breast cancer patients 5 years out vs. diagnostic mammograms? I still have my yearly breast MRI. Thanks again. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 5/13/2012 | It needs to be determined by the radiologist reading the mammogram and reviewing your previous ones and knowing your medical history to determine if making the switch is okay. the only difference for you actually is the timing of when they are read-- after you leave vs while you are there. congrats for being far out from stage III too! | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.