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Physical examination of the breast
1Department of Surgery, Evanston Hospital, IL 60201.
Cancer
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Physical breast exams remain crucial for cancer detection, even with mammography. Combining mammography and physical exams offers superior breast cancer screening compared to either method alone.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Screening mammography is increasingly emphasized for breast cancer detection.
- However, mammography alone may miss a significant percentage of breast cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role and effectiveness of physical breast examination in conjunction with mammography for optimal breast cancer screening.
Main Methods:
- Review of screening program data regarding mammography and physical examination efficacy.
- Analysis of the independent and combined diagnostic capabilities of both screening modalities.
Main Results:
- Physical breast examination can independently detect breast cancer.
- Mammography misses at least 10% of breast cancers.
- The combination of mammography and physical examination is superior to either method alone.
Conclusions:
- Optimal breast cancer screening necessitates the integration of both mammography and physical breast examination.
- Biopsy of a palpable dominant mass should not be delayed pending mammogram results.