Tests for Breast Health at University of Colorado Hospital

Breast Health Tests

Breast Exam

A physical examination of the breasts. The doctor, nurse practitioner or certified nurse midwife will feel all areas of the breasts to check for any lumps or abnormalities.

Mammogram

An x-ray machine that takes a film picture of your breast tissue to look for abnormal areas inside the breast that may be cancerous. Mammograms are the best tool for finding breast cancer early. Every woman beginning at the age of 40, or younger women who have an increased risk of breast cancer, should have a yearly mammogram.

Digital Mammogram

A newer type of mammogram that takes an electronic image of the breast and stores it directly in a computer instead of film. Digital mammography uses less radiation than film mammography and the images can be stored and sent electronically. For most women it is as good as film mammography for detecting early breast cancer and for young women with dense breasts, it may be better. Find out more about digital mammography.

Breast Ultrasound

A machine that uses high-energy sound waves to form a picture of the breast tissue, which is displayed on a screen. The ultrasound can show if a lump is solid or a fluid-filled cyst.

Genetic testing

A genetic counselor evaluates family history of breast cancer and performs blood tests to determine if the patient has a breast cancer gene. This testing can help women and their doctors make health care decisions that lower the risk of breast cancer. It is important to know that if a breast cancer gene is detected, a woman may have an increased risk of breast cancer, but does not mean a woman will get breast cancer.