Print this algorithm from the Guidelines: Age 40 and Above (pdf) or review the quick reference below.
When using this algorithm, consider the following notes referenced by their correlating numbern in the algorithm:
Imaging Workup1
Breast imaging work-up may include special views, ultrasound & cyst aspiration as indicated.
Negative Imaging Results2 Caution: Lobular carcinoma and some other tumors may be invisible on mammogram. Surgical referral is needed when a dominant palpable mass is not visualized.
American College of Radiology (ACR) Categories3 After the imaging workup is complete, the mammogram report should give some indication of the radiologist?s level of concern about the findings. See a description of the ACR categories.
Fine Needle Aspiration4 Bloody or clear cyst fluid should be sent for cytology. See diagnostic workup for more information.
Biopsy5 Biopsy includes open surgical biopsy, stereotactic core biopsy, ultrasound-guided core biopsy and/or fine needle aspiration biopsy.
At every stage there should be discussion between the woman and provider.
Page updated: September 21, 2007
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