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Sonography of the breast
V P Jackson1, H E Reynolds, D R Hawes
1Department of Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202, USA.
Seminars in Ultrasound, CT, and MR
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Breast ultrasound is a valuable tool for differentiating breast masses and guiding procedures. It aids in evaluating dense breasts, non-evaluable mammograms, and abscesses, but has limitations as a primary screening method.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Breast Health
Background:
- Mammography is the primary breast imaging modality.
- Breast ultrasound serves as a crucial adjunctive technique.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review indications for breast ultrasound.
- Discuss ultrasound's role in differentiating breast masses and guiding procedures.
- Evaluate ultrasound's limitations in breast cancer screening.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical applications of breast ultrasound.
- Discussion of diagnostic criteria for cysts and solid masses.
- Comparative analysis with mammography.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound effectively differentiates cystic from solid breast masses.
- It is useful for evaluating palpable masses in dense breasts and masses not fully assessed by mammography.
- Ultrasound is indicated for young patients and abscess evaluation.
- Ultrasound has relative disadvantages as a breast cancer screening tool.
Conclusions:
- Breast ultrasound is a vital adjunctive tool to mammography.
- Its applications include mass characterization, interventional guidance, and specific patient populations.
- Limitations exist for its use as a standalone breast cancer screening modality.