Mammogram vs. Thermogram

As with many other cancers, early detection and treatment are essential for the best possible outcome. Women are encouraged to start monthly self-breast exams by the time they are in their early 20’s. To successfully complete a self-breast exam, women are to touch all aspects of the breast, including the “tail” of tissue leading from the upper outer breast to the underarm. The woman is to check for changes in the size or shape of either breast. She is also looking for any areas of pain, nipple discharge, or new lumps or bumps.

Once a woman turns 40, she is encouraged to obtain breast imaging. The gold standard for breast cancer imaging is a mammogram. In this procedure, the breast tissue is compressed and an x-ray image is obtained. This can identify different densities and masses in the breast. 

Another breast imaging tool is thermography. This is currently FDA-cleared as an adjunctive tool, meaning it can add benefit to another screening procedure. Thermography uses infrared technology to show patterns of heat on or near the surface of the body. Any “hot spots” would then require further testing.

If an abnormality is detected on either a mammogram or a thermogram, further studies are needed to determine whether or not cancer is present. The patient may undergo further imaging with ultrasound or MRI. A surgeon may need to perform a biopsy and collect cells from the suspicious area. These are sent to the lab where a pathologist determines whether or not the cells are cancerous. 

I would encourage everyone to have an open conversation with their healthcare provider regarding their risks. This discussion should include both personal health and family history to determine which screening tools would be best for your situation.

~Emily Roling, FNP-BC