How does a mammogram work?

Mammographie : qu’est-ce que c’est ?

A mammography, a specialized type of medical imaging, is a gynecological diagnostic tool primarily used by women who present with breast lumpsand pain or discharge from the nipples. Although mammography cannot definitively confirm whether an abnormal area is indicative of breast cancer, it plays an essential role in detecting suspicious areas that may require further investigation. In the event of suspected cancer, a breast biopsy may be recommended for a definitive diagnosis.

This process involves the use of low-energy X-rays to examine the human breast for diagnostic and screening purposes, which contributes to the ability to detect tumors.

How does a mammogram work?

La mammographie est une radiographie qui permet d’obtenir des images de l’intérieur du sein, afin de procéder à un dépistage organisé du cancer. Pendant l’examen, le sein est placé entre deux plaques qui appuient légèrement pour obtenir des images claires. Ensuite, une machine envoie des rayons X à travers le sein vers un détecteur de l’autre côté.

This detector can be a film plate that records images on film, or an electronic detector that sends signals to a computer to create digital images, called mammograms. A radiologist then examines these images to detect problems or anything unusual.

Mammography is very important for examining the breasts and spotting possible problems, such as cancer. Thanks to X-rays, this examination provides a detailed view of the breast, enabling the doctor to make a thorough assessment. It's a crucial step in identifying breast problems early on and helping patients effectively.

What types of mammography are there?

There are two main types of mammogram:

1. Screening mammography Breast examination: This is a regular check-up performed on women without symptoms, to detect any signs of breast cancer early. These checks, usually done annually, are important for spotting problems before they cause symptoms, thus increasing the chances of successful cancer treatment.

2. Diagnostic mammography : utilisée pour un diagnostic plus précis, cette méthode est souvent recommandée après la détection d’anomalies telles qu’une masse ou d’autres changements suspects. Elle se fait dans un cabinet de radiologie, incluant des images supplémentaires et visant à analyser en détail la zone concernée.

Ces deux types d’examens sont essentiels dans la lutte contre le cancer du sein. Ils permettent d’évaluer la santé mammaire de manière approfondie et favorisent un diagnostic précoce, ce qui est crucial pour une prise en charge optimale. Il se peut dans certains cas que la mammographie ne puisse pas caractériser les lésions aperçues : la prescription d’une Breast MRI aide alors à fournir des informations complémentaires afin d’obtenir une évaluation plus exacte.

Where can I have a mammogram?

Pour réaliser une mammographie, il est important de se rendre dans un radiology center spécialisé, où des médecins experts effectueront les examens. À Paris, des centres comme le Centre d’imagerie de la femme et de l’enfant – Mammographie à Paris 2 offrent des services de mammographie. Vous pouvez facilement prendre rendez-vous via Doctolib.

À quoi ressemblent les résultats d’une mammographie ?

These mammography results usually present detailed images of breast tissue, revealing structures such as milk ducts, fatty tissue and blood vessels. Radiologists interpret these images with particular care to identify any suspicious masses, calcifications or other signs that could indicate the presence of breast cancer. This information is crucial for women, as early detection means that further diagnostic measures, such as biopsies, can be quickly initiated if cancer cells are suspected.

These procedures help to confirm or rule out the presence of breast cancer, enabling a suitable treatment plan to be drawn up in good time.

What is digital mammography?

A digital mammography, an evolution of traditional mammography, incorporates the use of digital receivers to capture and store breast images. This technological advance offers more precise image manipulation, enabling referring physicians to zoom, adjust contrast and optimize images. In women, this technology plays a significant role in the early detection of breast abnormalities, helping to reduce breast cancer mortality.

The ability to analyze images in greater depth facilitates accurate interpretation, enabling referring physicians to rapidly initiate appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures in cases of suspected breast cancer.