The 8 Common Breast Cancer Test Methods

Breast cancer starts in the tissues of the breasts. It is rare that it starts in any other part of the breast. According to s survey, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their respective lifetime. Mentioned below are the breast cancer test types depending on the purpose or stages of cancer a person is in:

1. Diagnostic Testing


2. Screening Testing

3. Treatment Testing

There are numerous breast cancer test methodologies available for detecting breast cancer. Here's a look at how they work:

1. Mammography: This is a breast cancer test which is taken in order to detect breast cancer in its early stages. This test is not considered to be the most accurate of all tests. But still it is considered one of the best testing options for breast cancer. 

2. Breast MRI: This method uses magnetic resonance imaging to generate images of the breast and the surrounding tissue. A breast MRI is usually done along with mammography or an ultrasound. This test is needed to get more detailed pictures of the breast, which is otherwise not possible with mammography or ultrasound alone.

font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">3. Breast Ultrasound: This test uses ultrasound waves to generate imagery of the breast. This test is performed to find out whether a lump in the breast is a solid mass or if it is a cyst.

4. CT Scan or Computer Tomography Scan: This test uses x-rays to generate cross-section imagery of the human body. This test is needed to identify masses and tumors in the human body.

5. Molecular Breast Imaging: This is a testing method which involves a radioactive material that traces and "lights up" the areas of cancer inside the breast. This testing method is still under research.

6. FISH Testing (flouroscence in situ hybridization): This is a test which is used to map the genes in a person's cells. It is usually opted for in the case of invasive cancer. It is used to find out if an invasive cancer is having too many HER2 cells.
7. Breast PET: This stands for Breast Positron Emission Tomography. This test also involves a radioactive tracer to find the lumps. This test is often used when all such tests like the MRI and the CT Scan fail to provide sufficient information.

8. Lymph Node Biopsy: This test involves the removal of a lymph node for examining it under a microscope. This test is performed in the case of swollen glands. This test is also performed when tests such as the MRI and CT Scan fail to provide enough information. This test involves needle biopsy, mediastinoscopy and bronchoscopy.

By: Sandy Rutherforde

For more information on breast cancer test please visit our website Treatments For Breast Cancer.