What your mammogram results actually mean

Have you received a call back after your mammogram? Don’t be alarmed, if this is your first mammogram the likelihood of getting called back increases because there are no images to common to. Actually, fewer than 1 in 10 women called back for more tests are found to have cancer according to The American Cancer Society. 

Whether you get a call back for further tests or not, it’s important to understand the results or terminology you may hear during or after your exam. 

Density

Density is the amount of fibrous and glandular tissues compared to fatty tissue in your breasts. The less fatty tissue there is, the higher the density is. A “dense breast” is common, but it can make it harder to evaluate your mammogram which can increase your need for ultrasounds or MRIs.

Parenchymal Asymmetry

Most women do not have identical breasts, so when you hear “parenchymal asymmetry” it may be as simple as one area on one breast did not look the same as the other.

Architectural Distortion

A mass may not have been seen, but there is an abnormality in the breast tissue. The concern level can go up based on what is contributing to the distortion.

Calcifications

A calcium deposit can appear as a bright white spot on a scan. Normally, this isn’t something to worry about and they will not indicate cancer.

Microcalcifications

Small clusters of calcium deposits are concerning, but they are not diagnostic of breast cancer. However, microcalcifications is an indicator that a biopsy is needed.

Mass/Lesion Tumor

The word “tumor” may be a terrifying thing to hear, but it’s not a diagnosis of cancer. A mass is simply a growth, nothing more – even bunions are considered masses, but that’s not toe cancer. A common noncancerous, or benign, tumor is fibroadenoma. Almost all calcified masses are benign. Of course, some masses hold a greater concern than others.

Spiculated Focal Mass

A high majority, but not all, of spiculate focal masses are cancerous. A biopsy of these are essential. If this is on your report, or your told that this is a result, you have every right to be concerned. Mammograms are very important for this type of mass because they normally cannot be felt during a manual breast exam. With not all of these masses being cancerous, if a biopsy does not detect cancer then surgery for removal is the best path.

In general, mammograms are your best friend when it comes to early detection of breast cancer. It’s important to continue your monthly manual checks and speak with your primary care doctor if you find something out of the ordinary. 

Understanding the importance of cancer screenings or how to go about a second opinion with your test results can help immensely when it comes to your mammogram and results.

Written By: Carolyn Reece, MSDM

Reviewed By: Srilata Gundala, MD