Triple test score: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 23:47, 9 February 2025

A diagnostic test used in breast cancer detection

Triple test score (TTS) is a diagnostic method used in the evaluation of breast abnormalities, particularly in the detection of breast cancer. It combines three diagnostic components: clinical breast examination, mammography, and needle biopsy. Each component is scored, and the combined score helps determine the likelihood of malignancy.

Components

Clinical Breast Examination

A clinical breast examination (CBE) is performed by a healthcare professional to assess any palpable abnormalities in the breast tissue. The examination involves visual inspection and manual palpation to detect lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge. The findings are scored based on the level of suspicion for malignancy.

Mammography

Mammography is an imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to examine the breast. It is a crucial component of the triple test score, as it can reveal masses or calcifications that may not be palpable. The mammographic findings are scored according to the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) classification.

Needle Biopsy

A needle biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of breast tissue for histological examination. This procedure can be performed using a fine needle aspiration (FNA) or a core needle biopsy. The biopsy results provide definitive information about the presence of cancer cells and are scored based on the pathology report.

Scoring and Interpretation

Each component of the triple test is scored on a scale, typically from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating a greater likelihood of malignancy. The scores from the clinical examination, mammography, and biopsy are combined to form the triple test score. A total score of 3 to 5 suggests a low probability of cancer, while a score of 6 to 9 indicates a moderate to high probability. A score of 10 to 15 is highly suggestive of malignancy, warranting further investigation or intervention.

Advantages and Limitations

The triple test score is valued for its ability to provide a comprehensive assessment of breast abnormalities by integrating clinical, radiological, and pathological data. It helps reduce unnecessary surgeries by identifying benign conditions that do not require invasive treatment. However, the accuracy of the TTS depends on the quality of each component, and false negatives can occur if any part of the test is not performed optimally.

Related pages

References

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-'''Triple Test Score''' is a diagnostic tool used in [[obstetrics]] and [[gynecology]] to assess the risk of a fetus having certain genetic conditions, such as [[Down syndrome]] (Trisomy 21), [[Edward's syndrome]] (Trisomy 18), or [[neural tube defects]]. The test is typically performed during the first or second trimester of [[pregnancy]]. It is called the "Triple Test" because it evaluates three specific substances in the mother's blood: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and unconjugated estriol (uE3).
+{{Short description|A diagnostic test used in breast cancer detection}}
+{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
+'''Triple test score''' (TTS) is a diagnostic method used in the evaluation of breast abnormalities, particularly in the detection of breast cancer. It combines three diagnostic components: [[clinical breast examination]], [[mammography]], and [[needle biopsy]]. Each component is scored, and the combined score helps determine the likelihood of malignancy.
 ==Components==
-* '''Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)''': A protein produced by the fetus. High levels of AFP may suggest a neural tube defect such as [[spina bifida]], while low levels can indicate a chromosomal abnormality like Down syndrome.
-* '''Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)''': A hormone produced within the placenta. Abnormally high levels can be a sign of Down syndrome.
-* '''Unconjugated estriol (uE3)''': An estrogen produced by both the fetus and the placenta. Low levels of uE3 can also indicate a risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
-==Procedure==
+===Clinical Breast Examination===
-The Triple Test is performed through a blood test taken from the pregnant woman. The levels of AFP, hCG, and uE3 are measured and analyzed. The results are then combined with the mother's age, weight, ethnicity, and the gestational age of the fetus to calculate the risk of genetic abnormalities.
+[[File:TTS_components_diagram.png|thumb|Diagram showing components of the Triple Test Score]]
+A clinical breast examination (CBE) is performed by a healthcare professional to assess any palpable abnormalities in the breast tissue. The examination involves visual inspection and manual palpation to detect lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge. The findings are scored based on the level of suspicion for malignancy.
-==Interpretation==
+===Mammography===
-The results of the Triple Test are given as a risk ratio, such as 1 in 100 or 1 in 1500, indicating the likelihood of the fetus having a genetic abnormality. It is important to note that the Triple Test does not diagnose a condition; it only indicates the level of risk. Abnormal results may lead to further diagnostic testing, such as [[amniocentesis]] or [[ultrasound]] scans, to confirm the presence of a genetic condition.
+[[File:Blausen_0628_Mammogram.png|thumb|Mammogram image showing breast tissue]]
+Mammography is an imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to examine the breast. It is a crucial component of the triple test score, as it can reveal masses or calcifications that may not be palpable. The mammographic findings are scored according to the [[Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System]] (BI-RADS) classification.
-==Limitations==
+===Needle Biopsy===
-The Triple Test has certain limitations. It does not detect all cases of Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities, and there is a risk of false positives and false negatives. The accuracy of the test can also be affected by factors such as incorrect dating of the pregnancy, multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.), and the presence of certain tumors in the mother.
+[[File:Needle_Breast_Biopsy.png|thumb|Needle biopsy procedure]]
+A needle biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of breast tissue for histological examination. This procedure can be performed using a fine needle aspiration (FNA) or a core needle biopsy. The biopsy results provide definitive information about the presence of cancer cells and are scored based on the pathology report.
-==Conclusion==
+==Scoring and Interpretation==
-The Triple Test Score is a valuable screening tool in prenatal care, helping to identify pregnancies that may be at increased risk for certain genetic conditions. However, it is only a screening test and must be followed by more definitive diagnostic tests to confirm any abnormal findings.
+Each component of the triple test is scored on a scale, typically from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating a greater likelihood of malignancy. The scores from the clinical examination, mammography, and biopsy are combined to form the triple test score. A total score of 3 to 5 suggests a low probability of cancer, while a score of 6 to 9 indicates a moderate to high probability. A score of 10 to 15 is highly suggestive of malignancy, warranting further investigation or intervention.
-[[Category:Obstetrics]]
+==Advantages and Limitations==
-[[Category:Gynecology]]
+The triple test score is valued for its ability to provide a comprehensive assessment of breast abnormalities by integrating clinical, radiological, and pathological data. It helps reduce unnecessary surgeries by identifying benign conditions that do not require invasive treatment. However, the accuracy of the TTS depends on the quality of each component, and false negatives can occur if any part of the test is not performed optimally.
+==Related pages==
+* [[Breast cancer screening]]
+* [[Breast biopsy]]
+* [[Breast imaging]]
+==References==
+{{Reflist}}
+[[Category:Breast cancer]]
 [[Category:Medical tests]]
-{{medicine-stub}}