Follow-Up for Abnormal Mammograms in Boulder, CO

If you have an abnormal mammogram in Boulder, CO, Boulder Breast Center is the best breast care provider to consult. Our Boulder breast specialists can help you understand the cause or treatment for any abnormal mammograms.

What to Expect After an Irregular Breast Screening

It is recommended that patients have a mammogram performed annually beginning at age 40. A mammogram before age 40 is of limited use because a woman’s breast tissue is generally too dense for the mammogram to identify a significant amount of detail. Around age 40, the breasts begin to thin out and become less dense in appearance. This process allows for more detail to be seen with mammography. Because of this dynamic change, it is important to perform mammography annually to follow any changes that occur over time.

Abnormal mammographic findings are benign 85-90% of the time. Most abnormalities are normally occurring masses and calcifications. Other abnormalities include changing masses, asymmetry, architectural distortion, skin changes, and axillary lymph node enlargement.

An abnormality identified on a screening mammogram usually prompts additional mammographic views to specifically examine the area of concern more closely. An ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to further examine the area of concern. If the abnormality is deemed to be most likely benign (not a cancer) with the additional studies, no biopsy is indicated. If further studies show a persistent abnormality, then a tissue sampling procedure (biopsy) is recommended to be sure that it is not cancer.

Most abnormalities seen on mammography cannot be felt by touch. Therefore tissue sampling or biopsies are often guided by the use of diagnostic imaging (i.e., mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI). The most minimally invasive technique is always preferred, using a needle to collect the tissue sample. Occasionally an open biopsy through an incision is necessary to properly sample the area of concern.

Abnormal Mammogram Treatment Options

• Additional Advanced Imaging Studies (Ultrasound, MRI, BSGI)
• Stereotactic Biopsy
• Surgical Biopsy

We invite you to come experience quality breast care and treatment options at Boulder Breast Center. Call us today at 303‑449‑3642 to schedule your visit in Boulder, CO. We’d be honored to provide you with the answers you’ve been looking for and help achieve your goals.