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14th October, 2009
European Survey on Standards of Care in paediatric oncology centres. J. R. Kowalczyk, M. Samardakiewicz, K. Pritchard-Jones, R. Ladenstein, S. Essiaf, E. Fitzgerald, G. Petrarulo, G. Vassal - EJC , Volume 61, pp 11-19
8th December, 2014
The purpose of this website is to provide good and clear information about the long-term effects of childhood cancer and to refer to the various late-effects outpatient clinics (LATER outpatient clinics) that exist in the Netherlands.
8th September, 2015
Cancer in young people is rare, but it is still a major health issue in Europe. Each year, more than 6,000 young people in Europe die of cancer. There are more than 300,000 European childhood cancer survivors (in 2020, they will be nearly half a million): two-thirds of them have some late side effects of treatment, that are severe and impact on the daily life of half of those affected.
A mammogram is a specialized medical imaging procedure used to screen and diagnose breast diseases, primarily cancer, in women. It involves taking X-ray pictures of the breast to detect early signs of cancer, often before physical symptoms develop. Mammograms are recommended annually for women of certain age groups or those with increased risk.
Healthcare has come a long way and the discovery of medical imaging has been its emperor. It not only helps to visualize the internal structures of our bodies but also aids in detecting anomalies, should there be any. It’s difficult to imagine a world where X-rays, Ultrasonography, Computed Tomography (CT) scans, and more wouldn’t exist. Among them, one indispensable imaging technique that revolutionized the fight against breast cancer is the mammogram. It could be daunting for those not familiar with the procedure, but this comprehensive guide will provide a better understanding of what mammography entails. From defining medical imaging to understanding mammograms, its procedure, results interpretation, benefits, and risks will be discussed herein.
Medical imaging denotes various techniques used to create images of internal body structures for clinical purposes. Enabling doctors to diagnose, monitor, and treat medical conditions in a non-invasive manner, it’s an innovation that revolutionized medical science.
Medical imaging incorporates many modalities catering to specific needs. Among them include X-rays, Ultrasounds, CT scans, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans, and mammograms, each providing a unique glimpse into the human body.
A mammogram is a specific type of X-ray imaging used for taking detailed images of breast tissues. Its primary purpose is to detect early signs of breast cancer, often before physical symptoms manifest, thus boosting the chances of effective treatment.
Mammograms use low-dose ionizing radiation to generate images of breast tissues. The machine compresses the breast for optimal imaging, creating a detailed view, including the areas near the chest wall and armpit.
The initial consultation serves as a backdrop to clarify the procedure, address concerns, and check medical history. It assists physicians in understanding any symptoms, previous breast surgeries, hormone use, and potential risk factors for breast cancer.
Preparing for a mammogram mainly involves avoiding deodorants, perfumes, or powders, as they could appear as calcifications on the images. Wearing loose clothing and scheduling the exam post menstrual cycle, when breasts are less tender can make the process more comfortable.
The procedure typically involves standing in front of a mammography machine, with the breast placed on a flat surface. The technician then lowers a separate flat panel, compressing the breast for few seconds to capture the images. The process then repeats for the other breast.
Reports following a mammogram examination span across a spectrum – from normal to benign findings, probably benign, suspicious abnormalities, highly suggestive of malignancy, and biopsy-proven malignancies.
Inconclusive results indicate a need for additional imaging or biopsy. It doesn’t always imply cancer. It could be due to dense breast tissue, overlapping tissues, or presence of a cyst or fibroadenoma.
Regular mammograms are crucial in early detection of breast cancer. They can detect lumps or microcalcifications (tiny deposits of calcium) that could be indicators of cancer or precancerous cells.
While mammograms immensely contribute to early breast cancer detection, debates surrounding radiation exposure, the discomfort of breast compression, and false positives or negatives, keeps the procedure under scrutiny.
In a nutshell, the mammogram is a powerful tool aiding in the early detection of breast cancer. It involves compressing the breast and using low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue. Despite occasional false results and the minor discomfort during procedure, its benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
For women considering mammograms, it’s crucial to speak up about any symptoms or risk factors. Remember, early detection often translates into successful treatment and a good prognosis.
Women aged 40-45 can start annual mammograms based on personal choice and doctors’ advice. Post 55, mammograms can be done every 2 years. However, women with a higher risk may need to start earlier and have more frequent tests.
Some women experience temporary discomfort, but it usually isn’t painful. If you’re concerned, scheduling the test postmenstrual cycle can help, as breasts are less likely to be tender or swollen.
Other screening options include MRI and ultrasound. However, they’re mostly used in addition to, not as a replacement for mammograms.
Yes. Although rare, men can develop breast cancer, too. If a man has symptoms such as lumps or nipple discharge, he may undergo a mammogram.
Abnormal findings necessitate further imaging tests or a biopsy to determine the cause. It doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer, as anomalies can arise from benign conditions, too.
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