Radiologic detection of breast cancer. Review and recommendations

Abstract

In response to recent public demand for mammographic examination after the discovery of breast cancer in two women of national prominence, the Ad Hoc Committee on Mammography of the Massachusetts Radiological Society reviewed the present indications, benefits, and risks of radiologic technics used in the detection of neoplastic breast disease. Either low-dose film mammography or xeromammography can provide diagnostic information with minimal radiation hazard, and thermography is a sensitive though nonspecific technic for interim follow-up observations and for screening of large groups of well patients. Mammographic examination should be performed before contemplated breast operations and in women at high risk for the development of breast cancer, especially those who have had previous neoplastic breast disease. Routine mammographic studies on well women may be initiated after the age of 35 years, the frequency of periodic re-examination being determined by clinical and mammographic findings.