Definition

Noun: A diagnostic medical imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to examine the human breast for the purpose of detecting tumors and other abnormalities, primarily used in screening for and diagnosing breast cancer.

Usage

Mammography is used as a screening tool for early detection of breast cancer in women without symptoms and as a diagnostic tool to investigate breast changes such as a lump, pain, or nipple discharge. - Regular mammography is recommended for women over a certain age as part of preventive healthcare. - The doctor ordered a diagnostic mammography to get a clearer image of the area of concern.

Advanced Usage

• Screening mammography: A routine X-ray examination of the breasts for women who have no signs or symptoms of breast disease.
  • She schedules her screening mammography every two years.
• Diagnostic mammography: A more detailed X-ray examination used to evaluate a specific breast abnormality found during a screening or noted through symptoms.
  • After the initial finding, she underwent a diagnostic mammography for further evaluation.

Variants and Related Words

• Mammogram (n): The X-ray image produced by the mammography procedure.
  • The radiologist analyzed the mammogram for any signs of microcalcifications.
• Mammographic (adj): Relating to or obtained by mammography.
  • The mammographic findings were inconclusive.

Synonyms

• Breast radiography: A more technical term for the X-ray imaging of the breast.
• Mastography: A less common synonym for mammography.

Related Phrases

• 3D mammography / Tomosynthesis: An advanced form of mammography that creates a three-dimensional image of the breast.
  • The new clinic offers 3D mammography, which can provide clearer images.
• Digital mammography: A system where the X-ray film is replaced by digital detectors, allowing for electronic image storage and enhancement.
  • Digital mammography has largely replaced film-based systems.

Noun

1. a diagnostic procedure to detect breast tumors by the use of X rays