Patients often confuse a screening mammogram vs. a diagnostic mammogram. Learn the difference of the two by reading the comparison below:
Screening mammogram
It is an x-ray exam of the breast of a woman with NO symptoms. It is recommended for women who are 40 years old and above with no symptoms or for younger women with specific risk factors for breast cancer.
Asymptomatic women with breast implants may undergo screening mammograms.
Annual screening mammography of age-appropriate asymptomatic women is currently the only imaging modality that has been proven to significantly reduce breast cancer mortality.
Diagnostic Mammograms
Diagnostic mammograms are done if there is an abnormality present such as a palpable mass, or other breast changes observed during a breast self-exam or by your physician.
If a finding was detected on screening mammography, a diagnostic mammogram may be done for further evaluation.