Understanding your diagnosis
Imaging describes where the disease is and how far it extends.
Breast imaging helps define the location and extent of an abnormality and whether more than one area is involved.
Different types of imaging answer different questions, and the results should be read together with the pathology findings.
The main types of breast imaging
Mammography
Mammography is an X-ray of the breast commonly used during initial assessment. It can show masses, distortion and calcifications, and is often the first test to identify an abnormality.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to examine an area of concern and nearby lymph nodes. It can help characterize a finding seen on mammography and guide a biopsy.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Breast MRI may be considered when additional information about the extent of disease is required. It is not needed for every patient, and its use depends on the clinical situation.
What an imaging review looks for
- Whether the abnormality is confined to one area
- Whether there are additional suspicious areas
- Whether the opposite breast is adequately assessed
- Whether suspicious lymph nodes are present
- Whether the imaging agrees with the biopsy result
Original files in DICOM format
Imaging should be supplied in its original digital (DICOM) format whenever possible. DICOM files allow a specialist to review the full images rather than a single printed picture.
Photographs of printed films or screenshots may not be adequate for review.
Will imaging be repeated in Korea?
Not necessarily.
Previous imaging may be usable when the original files are complete and of sufficient quality. Additional imaging may be requested when existing files are unavailable, incomplete or do not agree with other findings.
Questions for your clinical team
- Do the available images show the full extent of the disease?
- Are the original DICOM files available?
- Is additional imaging needed before surgery is planned?
- Do the imaging and pathology findings agree?