Why would I be called back after a mammogram?

You may be called back to a breast assessment clinic after your mammogram. This is because screening suggests further tests are needed. This does not necessarily mean there’s something wrong, as three out or four women recalled have normal results after attending the assessment clinic.

How long does it take to get abnormal mammogram results?

You typically have the results within a week or two. Most of the time, an abnormality seen on a mammogram isn’t cancer. When cancer is found with a mammogram, it’s often at a very early stage, when it’s most treatable.

Why would a radiologist want an ultrasound after a mammogram?

When someone has more fibrous or glandular tissue, doctors consider their breasts dense. Dense breast tissue can make it more challenging to read mammograms. If a radiologist has difficulty reading your mammogram due to dense breasts, they may call you back to undergo further testing, such as an ultrasound or an MRI.

How often are you called back after a mammogram?

If you have a mammogram, it’s not uncommon to be called back for an abnormal result. For example, your mammography center might contact you if something is unclear in your mammogram. In the U.S., about 10-12 percent of women are called back after a mammogram for more tests.

What happens after a mammogram is abnormal?

The mammogram will show no sign of breast cancer. If your mammogram does show something abnormal, you will need follow-up tests to check whether or not the finding is breast cancer. Most abnormal findings on a mammogram are not breast cancer. For most women, follow-up tests will show normal breast tissue.

What happens if mammogram is abnormal?

What would be an abnormal finding on a breast exam?

Other abnormal findings during a CBE may include (see pictures): Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast. Change in the size or shape of the breast. Dimpling or puckering of the skin.

What percentage of mammograms are abnormal?

How often are abnormalities found in a screening mammogram? Potential abnormalities are found in 6 to 8 percent of women who have screening mammograms. This small group of women needs further evaluation that might include breast physical examination, diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, or needle biopsy.

Can you tell if a lump is cancerous from a mammogram?

The radiologist will look for areas of white, high-density tissue and note its size, shape, and edges. A lump or tumor will show up as a focused white area on a mammogram. Tumors can be cancerous or benign. If a tumor is benign, it is not a health risk and is unlikely to grow or change shape.