What imaging techniques are commonly used to evaluate breast malignancy?

Mammography and ultrasound are the primary imaging techniques used to evaluate breast malignancy. Mammography is the standard screening tool for breast cancer, effective in detecting tumors that are too small to be felt during a physical exam. It uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of the breast tissue, helping radiologists spot abnormal growths.

Ultrasound serves as a complement to mammography, particularly in assessing breast abnormalities that have been detected during screening or physical examinations. It provides real-time imaging and is useful for characterizing masses, guiding biopsies, and evaluating lymph nodes. The ability to visualize structures in detail without exposing patients to radiation makes ultrasound an essential tool.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can also be used in specific cases, especially for high-risk patients, but it is not as commonly used as a routine screening tool. Other imaging techniques like CT scans, X-rays, and PET scans have limited roles in breast cancer evaluation compared to mammography and ultrasound, which are tailored specifically for breast tissue assessment and have established protocols for detection and diagnosis.