Dense Breasts, Which Exam Helps
When a mammogram reaches its limits, ultrasound and MRI can help.
With dense breast tissue, a mammogram reaches its limits, because small tumors are harder to spot in dense tissue. That is where additional methods can help.
Ultrasound works without radiation and can add extra reassurance in dense tissue. It is often used directly alongside a mammogram. Breast MRI is the most sensitive method and is used mainly when risk is clearly elevated or inherited. [internal link: Mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI]
Which combination makes sense for you depends on density, age, and risk. You make that decision together during your appointment. The important thing is that dense tissue is not a reason to worry, but a reason to adjust the exam.
What now? Take the next step.
The Prevention Check gives you personal guidance in four minutes. Anonymous, no app, your data stays with you.
Start the Prevention CheckOr stay in the loop
Pink News, the newsletter on breast health, prevention and knowledge. Arrives regularly, unsubscribe anytime.
Keep reading
What Breast Density Means
Glandular tissue versus fatty tissue, and why it matters on a mammogram.
What Dense Tissue Means for Your Risk
Dense breasts are normal, but density is a risk factor in its own right. Here is what that means in practice.
What is breast cancer?
How a tumor forms in the breast, and why catching it early is almost everything.
This content is for information only and does not replace medical advice.