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Re: Ultrasound or MRI?

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Posted by Shelly Blechman on 8/4/2003 from 216.117.218.35:

In reply to: Ultrasound or MRI? posted by linda Franz on 7/30/2003 from 208.15.35.35:

I believe it is good right now to do a follow up ultrasound to your mammogram. See what that shows up before doing a biopsy.

Ultrasounds are very useful in interpreting a mammogram. It can show whether a lump is fluid filled (like a cyst) or if it is solid (like a fibroadenoma, a psuedolump or a cancerous lump). It is also helpful in determining if breast density that appears on a mammogram is hiding a lump or to help distinguish between the folds of tissue that could be causing shadows on the mammogram. Because there is no radiation involved, it is believed to be harmless in using sound waves. You do want to go to someone who is experienced in performing and reading breast ultrasounds.

An MRI has been a good diagnostic tool for brain tumors and to determine if implants have leaked. It is now recognized as a tool that can find a breast cancer and further define other abnormalities that showed up on a mammogram or ultrasound. MRIs use contrast material (dye) injected into the veins. The problem with MRIs is their large number of false positives and false negatives, which brings into question their value for screening.

It is important to evaluate the pros and cons of using the various diagnostic tools that are available for us. Unfortunately, nothing we have is 100% and until improved technology comes along, we have to use what is at hand, which is presently state of the art and the standard of care.

Below are some links were you can read more about MRIs and their effectiveness.

http://www.jr2.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/band10/b10-1.html

http://www.nci.nih.gov/clinicaltrials/results/mri-vs-mammography0603

http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/13823.cfm

If you have some questions as to the quality of the providers in your area, you can seek second opinions in larger facilities in a nearby city. You can also contact the American College of Radiology (ACR) to find a certified radiology center/radiologist that meets all the standards set by the ACR.

If we can be of any help to you or you would like us to send you information, please feel free to contact us via email or at our toll free number (866) 2 WIN ABC (294-6222)

Shelly Blechman
Program Director
WIN Against Breast Cancer

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