Breast cancer is the most common non-skin cancer
and the second leading cause of cancer-related death
among U.S. women. According to the American
Cancer Society, early detection of breast cancer has saved
the lives of many thousands of women each year. Striving
to remain at the forefront of breast cancer imaging, The
Comprehensive Women's Imaging Center at Wellington
now offers digital mammography.
Like conventional (film screen) mammography, digital
mammography uses X-rays to create a detailed image of
the breast. Instead of a film cassette, however, an electronic
detector captures the image, which is converted to a picture
in less than a minute and reviewed on a computer monitor.
The magnification, brightness, contrast and orientation of
the image can be digitally manipulated, which can help to
improve early detection and may also eliminate repeat visits
for additional imaging.
Other advantages of digital mammography are shortened
exam time and even less radiation exposure than in low dose
conventional mammography. In addition, the radiologist
has the ability to digitally transmit the images to other
team members for consultation.
For some women, digital mammography may be a
more effective way to diagnose breast cancer. The Digital
Mammography Imaging Screening Trial (DMIST),
sponsored by the National Cancer Institute and including
nearly 50,000 women across the United States, found digital
mammography may be beneficial to these groups:
- Women younger than 50
- Women of any age with very dense breasts
- Pre- or perimenopausal women
At The Center, radiologists use high-quality ultrasound and
MRI to complement digital mammography in diagnosing
early breast cancer. If an abnormality is detected, specialists
also have the capability to perform an image-guided biopsy.
"With advances in digital mammography and other
diagnostic tools
over time,
Wellington
Regional Medical
Center will remain
at the forefront
of community
education,
promoting the
importance of early breast cancer detection in saving women's
lives," says Eric Grimm, DO, an interventional breast
radiologist.
To schedule an appointment for mammography at
The Comprehensive Women's Imaging Center at Wellington,
please call 561-798-8513.
When to See Your Doctor
The American Cancer Society recommends yearly
mammography for women age 40 and older. Women of
all ages, however, should examine their breasts once
a month to check for any changes or abnormalities. See
your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following
during your monthly self-exam:
- A lump in or near your breast or under your arm
- Thick or firm tissue in or near your breast or under
your arm
- Nipple discharge or tenderness
- A nipple pulled back (inverted) into the breast
- Itching or skin changes such as redness, scales, dimples
or puckers
- A change in breast size or shape
Eric Grimm, DO,
is a board-certified
interventional breast
radiologist with cross-sectional
imaging
fellowship training.
Dr. Grimm is a
partner of Wellington
Imaging Associates.