Breast cancer diagnosis

Diagnosis of breast cancer begins with a conversation. First, the oncologist needs to evaluate the complaints and determine if there have been illness cases in the patient's family. Next, it helps identify the hereditary cancer form. Palpation of the mammary glands and the lymph nodes allows the doctor to detect asymmetry and changes in shape and position. Then, the physician directs the woman to mammography. It is performed in direct and lateral projections, giving complete information. Mammography can detect breast changes in up to 90% of cases. Ultrasound imaging is also used. The area of a rounded shape with uneven edges represents the image of the tumor. Allows to distinguish cysts (cavities with fluid) from dense tumors and assess the condition of lymph nodes. Computed tomography is used to determine the tumor size and location. The results of a biopsy determine the final diagnosis. Tumor cells can be detected by examining the discharge from the nipple. A fine needle biopsy inserts a needle into the breast mass under the control of ultrasound or mammography. Finally, the histological examination helps to assess the cell's structure. The "molecular genetic portrait" of a breast tumor is essential when choosing the optimal treatment.