A member asked:

Had breast mri , family history. a lump they think its benign lymph node. right away they want to do a mammogram . why would they do it if its that ?

5 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Philip Chao answered

Specializes in Radiology

Well benign lymph: Nodes are not palpable. Also on breast MRI they can tell if it was a lymph node by its shape and enhancement pattern. The problem is that lymph nodes have a washout pattern similar to that seen with cancer. I do not think the mammogram will help but you can do it on a 3d hologics digital unit. This needs followup.

Answered 6/10/2014

5.1k views

Thank

Good Question!: Mammograms are of limited benefit in your 20's & not routinely ordered. I advise you to see a breast surgeon to help put all these puzzle pieces together. Something is not adding up based on the info you are providing--a benign-appearing intramammary ln usually requires no further evaluation. If anything, a directed ultrasound may corroborate these findings & allow easier follow-up.

Answered 12/10/2013

5.1k views

Thank
Dr. Tina Stein answered

Specializes in Radiology

Mam may prove it : An MRI cannot always tell a lymph node from a tumor, including cancer. A lymph node and some tumors light up intensely after contrast is injected. But a lymph node on a mammogram may have the classic appearance of a lymph node and if it is in the same place in the breast as the "lump" seen on the MRI the answer will be clear. Note: if you have a prior mammogram have them compare with this one!

Answered 6/10/2014

4.9k views

Thank

Related Questions

Sponsored Content
HealthTap Medical Group does not endorse products or services. Sponsored content revenues support our mission to make health information free and accessible to all.Learn more