Mammographic Density

Densities are the second finding on a mammogram that warrants evaluation. A density is a region seen on the mammogram that stands out from the surrounding tissue. Prior mammograms, if available, are essential in completing the mammographic evaluation, as a subtle change in the density if the breast may only be perceived when the films are compared to previous studies.

Densities, once proven to be persistent even when the breast is compressed, should be evaluated by an ultrasound.

Densities can be anything from a simple cyst (a fluid filled sack that is not cancer) to a cancer invading into the breast tissue. Densities are often described as round, regular, oval, asymmetrical, speculated, irregular or any combination of these. In order to determine what is causing the mass a biopsy may need to be performed. This may be as simple as placing a needle into the lesion to pull out fluid or as complex as going to the operating room to have the area removed.

The "Best Breast Practice"in 2010 is to have what is called a minimally invasive diagnostic biopsy. At your surgeon’s discretion, you may need to go to the operating room to have an open surgical biopsy through a standard incision.