chatbot-logo

Tests and Diagnosis For Breast Cancer

Tests and Diagnosis For Breast Cancer
Book Appointment
in Oncology

Apr 19, 2022

Breast cancer patients usually present themselves with some lump in the breast or bleeding / puckering of nipple over weeks.

The cancer physician to diagnose the reason for the same and to rule out cancer can order few tests, which are as follows :

The same is defined as the Triple Assessment Test –

  • Clinical examination: palpation of the breast and axilla.
  • Imaging (usually mammography, ultrasonography, or both)
  • Needle biopsy

Post the triple assessment the type, location and the stage of cancer is diagnosed. Depending on these factors the treatment protocol is decided – surgical, medical and radiation.

Diagnosis For Breast Cancer

Why the Tests?

Previously the surgical techniques involved  radical breast removal which was a very extensive surgery. Gradually it turned towards modified radical breast removal which is finer and recently with early breast cancer presentations the aim is towards breast conservation surgery which is finest ,most appropriate and acceptable technique. In this the woman can keep her breasts and not go through a removal procedure.
Majority of the times the screening is done with mammography on high risk females with age more than 50 years and /or family history of cancers.

Some patients with dense breast needs sonographic evaluation also. Generally these patients if show some presence of cancer, undergo core needle or true cut biopsy.

Small size breast cancers do not need advanced imaging techniques before surgery but large size breast cancers need CT scan of chest and abdominal sonogram also. More recently these patients undergo PET CT scan before surgery.

For some patients with doubtful breast lesions physician takes the help of MRI of breast to differentiate benign and malignant lesions.

Of course not every breast lesion is cancer, majority of them are benign and disappear with conservative management.

It is very important that physician orders the biopsy of suspicious lesion earliest and pathologist categorises the biopsy specimen into benign and malignant lesion. Moreover unnecessary tests increase the fear of cancer in females and breast awareness is encouraged rather than testing in general population without increased risk of breast cancer.

Recent Blogs

Cervical Cancer Screening: Why It Matters and How to Get Tested
Cervical cancer is highly preventable with regular screening and HPV vaccination. Early detection through Pap smears, HPV tests, and advanced screening methods can save lives. Learn about the importance of screening, prevention strategies, and expert care at Paras Hospitals.
Continue Reading
Lung Cancer: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, often detected late. While smoking is a major risk factor, air pollution, genetics, and workplace exposure also contribute. Early detection through low-dose CT scans and advanced treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapy can improve survival rates. Learn about symptoms, risk factors, and expert care at Paras Hospitals.
Continue Reading
Understanding EBUS: Revolutionizing Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure used for diagnosing and staging lung cancer and other lung diseases. It provides precise imaging and enables accurate biopsies, revolutionizing lung disease management with faster recovery and improved outcomes.
Continue Reading
Brain Cancer: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Stages & Treatment
Discover the types, symptoms, causes, and treatments of brain cancer. Paras Hospital provides expert oncologists, advanced technology, and personalized care for effective brain cancer management.
Continue Reading
Understanding Prostate Cancer: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Stages, and Treatment
Explore prostate cancer, its symptoms, causes, types, stages, and treatment options. Learn about early detection and advanced care at Paras Health.
Continue Reading
Bone Tumours Uncovered  Types, Causes, Stages & Breakthrough Treatments
Bone tumours, despite being relatively rare, could significantly affect a person’s quality of life if not pre-emptively diagnosed and treated at an earlier stage. Although one can empower themselves by understanding its types, causes and treatment options to be better equipped to deal with it.
Continue Reading
Breast Cancer - Types, Symptoms, Causes, Stages & Treatment
Breast cancer is one of the most life-altering cancers in the world. A lot of women globally gets impact with breast cancer. Contrary to popular belief, a lot of men too suffer from breast cancer but majorly it has been reported amongst women.
Continue Reading
View all Blogs
loading