Hi,
I can’t seem to get a straight explanation.
I was diagnosed and completed treatment on 2023.
I am on hormone therapy.
I have had annual MRI’s with contrast to check all is well.
This year I had both the MRI and a mammogram as I’ve turned 40.
My question is why both? I understand why I would have a MRI, but wouldbt that be enough on its own?
Just curious
Tia
Hannah
Not all breast cancers can be detected on MRi just as not all are seen on mammograms and/or ultrasounds. Depends on the type (position and characteristics).
Hi Hannahjc,
Thanks for posting.
Generally, if someone is diagnosed with breast cancer under the age of 40 a mammogram may not be as helpful a way of getting a clear image of the breast as younger women’s breast tissue is often more dense. This can make any changes more difficult to see. In situations such as yours a breast MRI is often used as an alternative to a mammogram during follow up.
As you have now reached your 40’s your breast tissue may start to become less dense, and a mammogram may be helpful in completing the follow up assessment of your breasts. The degree to which breast density decreases with age does however vary from woman to woman and so your treatment team may feel doing both scans is the right approach at this point. You may wish to ask your breast care nurse or treatment team to explain why your follow up now includes a mammogram.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
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