6 March 2019 Author : João Reis Breast self-examination and breast imaging exams play a key role in the success of breast cancer treatment. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women and is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. The identification of physical changes to the breast is essential for early diagnosis . It has significant benefits in terms of the possibilities for breast cancer treatment and its success. Therefore, you should always: Examine your breasts regularly: if you identify any changes in your breasts during self-examination, seek help from your family doctor and have the recommended diagnostic tests; Attend routine breast examinations recommended for your age group , even if you have no symptoms; See your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any breast symptoms: even if you have recently undergone breast examinations that did not show any relevant changes (BIRADS 1 or 2). What is the point of routine breast tests and when should they be performed? Routine breast examinations are performed even if no changes have been detected in self-examination. They aim to achieve an early diagnosis, when the diseases are not yet causing symptoms, because at this point the treatment alternatives and their success are more favourable. More information: The age at which routine breast examinations start and their frequency is determined by the family doctor; In general, routine breast examinations start between the ages of 40 and 45 and should be carried out regularly up to the age of 70-75; In most cases, they take place every year or every two years, depending on age and risk factors. What is the purpose of diagnostic breast examinations and when should they be carried out? Diagnostic breast examinations are done to gain a more detailed insight into symptoms or changes in the breasts detected by the patient or the family doctor. The most common changes warranting diagnostic breast examinations are: The identification of a palpable mass or nodule; Chenges to the skin or nipple; Discharge from the nipple. Mammography Mammography is a breast X-ray that uses very low levels of radiation. It is carried out by a radiology technician and analysed by a radiologist . Two images of each breast are made on different planes (craniocaudal and oblique). It may be necessary to obtain more images in order to clarify particular aspects. To obtain adequate images using a low level of radiation, the breast has to be compressed for 5 to 10 seconds . Pain and discomfort from compression of the breast may be alleviated by the following measures: Follow the instructions of the person carrying out the examination; Try not to move and stay relaxed, so the examination can be completed as quickly as possible. Breast ultrasound The ultrasound is the second-most common breast examination after mammography. It is carried out by a radiologist . This test is based on ultrasound , it does not use radiation and it's not painful. Gel is applied to the breast. This gel eliminates any residual air and allows the correct passage of the ultrasound device in order to obtain quality images. Other information... On the day you are going to have breast examinations, you should not apply any cream or deodorant to the breast or armpit region, as these can interfere with the quality of the results; On the day of the examination, be sure to take previous examination images and reports with you, as in some cases comparison with previous examinations is essential to make a correct diagnosis; In addition to mammography and breast ultrasound, there are other, more complex, breast examinations. These include punch biopsy of the breast, galactography or magnetic resonance imaging of the breast. These tests are not routinely used because they have specific indications. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
