Early detection is critical in the battle against breast cancer. While mammography remains the gold standard for screening, it may miss malignancies in women with dense breast tissue. This is where Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) emerges as a viable supplementary screening technique. Schedule a consultation today to find out more.
What is ABUS, and how does it work?
ABUS is a non-invasive ultrasound technique that employs sound waves to generate images of breast tissue. Unlike traditional ultrasonography, which requires a professional operator to operate the probe and analyze the results, ABUS is fully automated. This implies that a machine moves the ultrasound probe around the breast and then analyzes the pictures using a computer program.
Understanding dense breasts
The radiologist who scans your mammogram determines breast density and classifies it into four groups. Your provider will determine if you have dense breasts based on the density scale categorization of your mammogram.
Why is ABUS important for women with dense breasts?
Dense breast tissue is prevalent, affecting up to 40% of women. It looks white on mammograms, making it difficult to differentiate between malignant and benign tumors. ABUS, on the other hand, can distinguish between different kinds of tissue, making it more useful for identifying malignancies in women with dense breasts.
Benefits of ABUS
- Improved cancer detection
ABUS has been found in studies to increase breast cancer detection by up to 35.7% when used in conjunction with mammography.
- Painless and non-invasive
ABUS is a comfortable technique that does not expose you to radiation.
- Suitable for women with dense breasts
ABUS is an important tool for women with dense breast tissue, who are more likely to develop breast cancer and for whom mammography may be ineffective.
Limitations of ABUS
- Cost
ABUS is a very new technology, and the cost of the operation may be more than mammography.
- Availability
ABUS is not yet generally available, and the availability of this technology may vary by area.
- Not a replacement for mammography
ABUS is designed to be used in addition to mammography, not as a substitute.
Taking control of your breast health
If you have dense breast tissue, see your doctor about whether ABUS is appropriate for you. Early detection is critical for successful breast cancer therapy, and ABUS can be a helpful tool in your screening process.
Remember that this post is designed for informative purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor to discuss your specific breast health concerns and choose the best screening alternatives for you.
