How is invasive ductal carcinoma diagnosed?
Several tests can help your doctor identify and diagnose IDC, including:
Physical exam. A manual examination of your breasts by your doctor can detect lumps and other changes. If your doctor feels a lump or thickening, he or she may recommend further tests to rule out IDC.
Digital mammography is an improved method of breast imaging that is performed much like a regular mammogram. However, it is better than conventional mammography in detecting cancer in younger patients and those with dense breast tissue. Electronic images can be enhanced with computer-aided detection systems to spot masses, calcifications, and abnormalities associated with cancer.
Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to examine the breast tissue and gauge blood flow. It is safe for examining pregnant patients and does not use radiation.
Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer that can detect small breast lesions and may be especially useful in examining patients with a high risk of breast cancer, such as those with BRCA1, BRCA2, or other gene mutations associated with cancer.
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Biopsy. A breast biopsy involves taking a sample of breast tissue from a suspicious area and sending it to a laboratory for microscopic examination by a pathologist, a doctor who specializes in identifying signs of disease. A biopsy can confirm or rule out the presence of cancer and, if cancer is present, reveal its characteristics.
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