ultra sound

[neemax3]

I had breast cancer 13 yrs ago (i'm 49).  My little sister just got her 1st mammo the other day (she is 37)  They decided to do one because of my history.  She has dense, lumpy breasts, so after they read her mammo, they decided to do an ultra sound.  I understand all that, but they took "lots of still shots"  and ran the ultra sound up into her arm pits.  I know that would be for the lymph nodes, but I haven't heard of this being done "routinely".  What's your thoughts?   Neemax3

[monica148]

I am glad to hear that her doctors took a good look, because of your history.  The same thing happened in my case. My sister had breast cancer, and when I told them that, they really took a good look, and found it in me too.  

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear neemax3, Different tests give different pieces of information that help in the evaluation of a person's situation.   An ultrasound is helpful in providing information distinguishing between fluid filled cystic areas and solid tissue areas.  Each case would be different in terms of the findings, so her exam with the lumpiness may dictate the need for more focus on certain areas.