Screening mammogram
Screening Mammogram
A Screening Mammogram (pronunciation: /ˈskriːnɪŋ ˈmæməɡræm/) is a type of medical imaging procedure that uses low-dose X-rays to detect breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease.
Etymology
The term 'mammogram' is derived from the Greek words 'mamma' meaning 'breast' and 'gramma' meaning 'something written or drawn'. The prefix 'screening' is derived from the Old Norse 'skrīna', meaning 'to divide or separate', referring to the procedure's purpose of identifying potential health issues.
Procedure
The procedure involves compressing the breast between two plates and taking X-ray images from different angles. This allows for a detailed examination of the breast tissue, which can help detect early signs of breast cancer, such as microcalcifications and tumors that may not be felt during a physical examination.
Benefits and Risks
Screening mammograms can detect breast cancer early, potentially before it has spread to other parts of the body. This can increase the chances of successful treatment and survival. However, like all medical procedures, screening mammograms also have risks. These include false-positive results, overdiagnosis, and exposure to low levels of radiation.
Related Terms
- Diagnostic Mammogram: A type of mammogram used to investigate suspicious breast changes, such as a new breast lump or breast pain.
- Digital Mammogram: A mammogram in which the X-ray images are captured electronically and displayed on a computer.
- Breast Ultrasound: An imaging technique that uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the breast.
- Breast MRI: A procedure that uses magnetic fields to capture detailed images of the breast.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Screening mammogram
- Wikipedia's article - Screening mammogram
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