Waiting for mammogram results can feel stressful, but knowing what they mean can ease your mind and help you take charge of your breast health.
At the OB-GYN practice of Alan B. Patterson, MD, we’re dedicated to guiding women in Coral Springs, Florida, through each step of their health journey, including preventive screenings and results of vital health tests.
Mammograms play an important role in detecting breast cancer. Dr. Patterson takes time to explain your mammogram results, so you always know what to expect next.
Your mammogram results include a breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) score, which helps standardize how findings are described and which follow-up steps may be needed. Here’s a breakdown of what each category means, including how Dr. Patterson interprets them for your next steps:
This means the radiologist needs more information before providing a final result. You may be asked to return for additional imaging tests, such as extra mammogram views or a breast ultrasound.
Everything looks normal. No suspicious masses, distortions, or calcifications were found. You can continue with routine annual screenings.
Noncancerous changes, such as cysts, fibroadenomas, or small calcifications, were seen. These are common and harmless. No immediate follow-up is needed. For this category, routine screening is recommended.
This result means the finding is almost certainly noncancerous, with less than a 2% chance of malignancy. The radiologist typically recommends a follow-up mammogram in six months to confirm that the area remains stable over time. Dr Patterson always will discuss a Catagory 3 result with his patients and will recommend they see a breast surgeon for a second opinion! And Dr Patterson will provide names of breast surgeons who you can make an appointment with to see.
This score suggests that something looks slightly unusual, and while it may still be benign, a biopsy is recommended to determine the cause. There are different subcategories (4A, 4B, and 4C) that indicate varying levels of concern, and Dr. Patterson will explain what yours means.
This category indicates a strong likelihood of breast cancer, typically over 95%. At this stage, a biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. If cancer is detected, Dr. Patterson will guide you through the next steps.
This score is used when cancer has already been diagnosed and imaging is being used to monitor treatment progress or assess the surgical site. Dr. Patterson continues to collaborate closely with oncology specialists to track your response and but he lets the breast specialists do all of your breast care.
When you receive mammogram results, Dr. Patterson reviews your report in detail and explains what your BI-RADS score means for you, personally.
Your mammogram report will also include information about breast density, which refers to how much fibrous or glandular tissue you have compared to fatty tissue.
Dense breast tissue is common and not abnormal, but it can make it harder for mammograms to detect small, early growths. But additional testing will be ordered if indicated.
If your mammogram results suggest further evaluation, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have breast cancer. Most follow-up exams confirm that findings are benign.
Depending on the situation, the radiologist who has read your mammogram may recommend:
Dr. Patterson ensures every step of your follow-up care is explained clearly and performed with your comfort and peace of mind as top priorities.
Routine mammograms are one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Most women should begin annual mammograms at age 40, though your screening schedule may vary based on family history or certain risk factors.
If you’ve recently had a mammogram and are waiting on your results, or if you’re due for your next screening, Dr. Patterson and the rest of our team are here to help.
Contact the office of Alan B. Patterson, MD, in Coral Springs, Florida, to schedule your appointment today and protect your breast health with compassionate, expert care. Dr Patterson’s office will give you the information, so you can schedule your own appointment at a mammogram center and once it is done at a mammogram center if abnormal, Dr Patterson will contact you. Dr Patterson’s office DOES NOT do mammograms.
