The test used to identify breast cancer in the initial phase of mammography, which consists of an X-ray to see if there are any breast tissue lesions before a symptom of cancer occurs, such as sinus pain. exit settled by nipples, for example. See signs that may indicate breast cancer.
Mammography should be done at least every 2 years from age 40, but in women with a history of breast cancer in the family, this test should be done annually from 35 to 69 years of age, if the mammogram results show some form of alteration, the doctor may request a re-examination as an ultrasound , MRI or biopsy to confirm a cancerous alteration of the breast.
In addition, there are other tests that can help identify and confirm breast cancer, such as:
The physical exam is performed by a gynecologist through breast palpation, allowing the identification of nodules or other changes of the woman’s breast, however, this is not a much-needed test since the general doctor usually requests other imaging tests such as a mammogram.
This is usually the first test when women have symptoms of breast cancer or when they discover changes in breast screening.
While self-exploration takes place at home, watch the video below that clearly explains how it should be done:
Blood tests are useful for diagnosing breast cancer because normally, in the case of cancer treatments, certain specific proteins have an increased blood concentration such as CA 125, CA 19. 9, CEA, MCA, AFP, CA 27. 29 years CA 15. 3, which is usually the marker requested by your doctor. Learn more about AC 125 blood testing.
In addition to being important in helping diagnose breast cancer, tumor markers can also tell your doctor about how your body responds to breast cancer treatment.
In addition to tumor markers, blood sample analysis has identified certain mutations in tumor-suppressing genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 that, when modified, may predispose to the development of breast cancer. This genetic test is recommended for people with close family members. who have been diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50, for example. Learn more about the genetic problem to learn about breast cancer risk.
Breast ultrasound is a test that is often done after a mammogram that causes some damage. It is also especially indicated in tall and firm women, especially if there are cases of breast cancer in the family. In these cases, ultrasound is a complementary exam to mammography, because this test does not highlight small nodules in tall women.
However, when a woman has no family history and cannot be seen by a mammogram, this test is only done. Learn more about how mammography is done.
MRI is mainly used when there is a high risk of breast cancer in women, especially when mammography or ultrasound results change, because MRI helps the gynecologist confirm the diagnosis and identify the size of the cancer, as well as identify the existence of other affected areas.
During MRI, the woman should rest lean against her mouth, resting her chest on a special platform that prevents her from depressing, thus allowing a better image of breast tissue. the best possible position to avoid causing changes in images through body movement.
Biopsy is usually the last diagnostic test used to confirm the presence of cancer, as this test is performed in the laboratory with samples taken directly from breast lesions, allowing the presence of tumor cells, if these cells are present confirming the diagnosis of cancer.
Generally, the biopsy is performed in the office of a gynecologist or pathologist under local anesthesia, since it is necessary to introduce water into the breast to have the small parts of the nodule or alteration identified in other diagnostic tests.
The FISH test, which means fluorescent hybridization in situ, can be performed after the biopsy when there is a diagnosis of breast cancer. This test allows you to choose the most appropriate type of treatment to eliminate cancer.
The FISH test is a genetic tool that identifies specific genes in cancer cells called HER2, which, when present, indicates that the best treatment for cancer should be performed with a trastuzumab called a substance, which is an antibody similar to these produced by the body. naturally to protect yourself from viruses and bacteria.