What is a mammogram? how is a mammogram different from other types of breast imaging methods?

A : A mammogram uses ionizing radiation to generate an image of the breasts. It is excellent at detecting tiny calcifications which can indicate the presence of cancer. Ultrasound uses sound waves to generate an image of the visualized breast. Ultrasound uses no ionizing radiation and is excellent at detecting cysts (fluid collections), lymph nodes, and abnormal blood vessels. Breast MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to image the breasts. Contrast is injected into a vein and then the breasts are imaged over time to detect cancer.

A breast xray: Mammograms image with xray energy; ultrasounds with sound waves, and MRI use magnetism to image. All show different things. Generally an MRI would be done in someone in which a mammogram would not be helpful (very dense, cystic breasts) ultrasounds are used to help with biopsying a mass and not too useful for screening.

A mammogram is: a low dose xray of the breast. Breast Ultrasound uses sound waves to generate an image, and MRI uses magnetic fields. Try this link for more info: http://www.cancer.org/healthy/findcancerearly/examandtestdescriptions/mammogramsandotherbreastimagingprocedures/mammograms-and-other-breast-imaging-procedures-toc