Screening and Diagnosis

The Evergreen Breast Health Center features the advanced technology of digital mammography. Breast images go directly to a computer, where they can be enhanced to allow for more precise readings.

If the radiologists see something that warrents a further look, patients will have a breast ultrasound. 

In some cases, particularly where there is a strong family history of breast cancer, a breast MRI will be performed.

When a lump or abnormal area is identified, a breast biopsy wil be taken to establish a diagnosis. About 80% of breast biopsies are non-cancerous.

Biopsies may include:

• Stereotactic Core Biopsy
• Ultrasound-guided Fine Needle Aspiration
• Ultrasound-guided Core Biopsy
• MR-guided Core Biopsy/Wire Localization
• Breast Scintigraphy (Nuclear Medicine)
• Wire Localization Surgical Biopsy
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
• Galactogram

If a problem is detected, immediate referrals can be made to other members of the Evergreen cancer team for continued treatment.

If a surgical consultation is necessary, the radiologist at the Breast Health Center will arrange the appointment with an Evergreen-affiliated surgeon located right on campus.