Dr Farhana Fadzli · Breast Radiology
Breast Imaging
An introduction to the images, questions and conversations that can be part of breast assessment. Explore each topic at your own pace, from mammography and ultrasound to further assessment when it is needed.
Explore Common QuestionsA Guide to Breast Imaging
Common Questions
These are general explanations. Your own imaging plan and results should be discussed with your clinical team.
What Can Mammography and Ultrasound Show?
These tests look at breast tissue in different ways. A radiologist considers the images along with the reason for the examination, any earlier images and other clinical information.
Uses low-dose X-rays to create breast images. A diagnostic mammogram may include extra views to examine a particular area more closely.
Uses sound waves to examine an area of the breast and can help answer questions raised by a symptom or another image.
What Does Dense Breast Tissue Mean for Imaging?
Breast density describes the mix of tissue seen on a mammogram. Dense tissue can make some changes harder to see on mammography. It is a description of the image, rather than something that can be determined by touch.
Your clinician can explain your report in the context of your history and whether any other imaging should be considered for you.
Dense Breasts: Answers to Commonly Asked Questions (NCI) ↗Why Might Someone Be Called Back?
Sometimes an image needs a closer look before a finding can be understood. A callback may involve additional mammogram views, an ultrasound or another assessment chosen by the clinical team.
When Is Breast MRI Used?
MRI creates detailed images using a magnet and radiofrequency. It may provide additional information in selected situations, alongside other breast imaging. The reason for using it depends on the particular clinical question and individual circumstances.
What If an Image-Guided Biopsy Is Recommended?
If an area needs a tissue sample, imaging can help guide the sampling to the right place. A pathologist examines the sample, and your clinical team considers the result with the images and other findings.
The team performing the procedure can explain the approach, preparation and result process for your specific situation.
The Wider Picture
How the Pieces Come Together
Breast assessment can involve more than one source of information. A symptom, clinical history or screening image may lead to further views or tests. When a sample is needed, pathology can add information that an image alone cannot provide.
The steps are different for each person. Radiology, pathology and the wider care team bring their findings together to explain what is known and what may need to happen next.
Further Reading
Read a Little More
Explore Dr Farhana’s articles, a Hospital Picaso feature and a patient education resource.
Clinical Appointments
For individual care, current services and appointments, please use the Hospital Picaso clinical route. This page is general information and does not replace medical advice.