What is the Difference Between Screening Mammogram and Diagnostic Mammogram?

The main difference between a screening mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram lies in their purposes and the level of detail in the images they provide. Here are the key differences:

• Purpose: Screening mammograms are annual preventive exams used to detect breast cancer in women who have no apparent symptoms. Diagnostic mammograms are used to more closely examine breast tissue, typically following symptoms or after a screening mammogram shows suspicious results.
• Level of Detail: A screening mammogram is a routine exam that takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Diagnostic mammograms are more detailed and can take longer than screening mammograms. During a diagnostic mammogram, the radiologist typically reviews the images of the breast tissue during the exam, allowing them to determine in real-time if there is a need to capture more images.
• Symptoms and Signs: Diagnostic mammograms are used for women who have symptoms such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, thickening of skin on the breast, or whose breasts have changed shape or size.

Both screening and diagnostic mammograms use low-dose X-rays to examine the breast. They may use either the standard 2-dimensional digital mammography or 3-D mammograms. The technology used in both cases is the same, but the intent and the level of detail in the images they provide differ.

Comparative Table: Screening Mammogram vs Diagnostic Mammogram

Here is a table comparing screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms:

Screening mammograms are performed on women without symptoms or signs of breast cancer, aiming to detect the disease in its early stages when treatment options are most effective and prognosis is more favorable. Diagnostic mammograms, on the other hand, are used for women with symptoms or signs of breast cancer, such as a lump, pain, nipple thickening or discharge, or changes in breast shape or size. They are also performed to evaluate abnormalities detected in a screening mammogram. Both types of mammograms use low-dose X-rays to examine the breast tissue.