The role of digital mammography in the evaluation of asymmetric breast findings: in correlation with ultrasound

Document Type : Original Article

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Department of Radiology, diagnostic radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Egypt

Abstract

Both breasts are relatively symmetric structures in both size and tissue pattern on mammography.
Finding asymmetry is relatively common and can be due to normal physiological and many 
pathological changes, in most cases of benign nature. However, it may indicate underlying 
malignancy. Objective: the aim of this study was to evaluate the role of digital mammography in 
asymmetric breast findings in correlation with ultrasound. Patients and methods: Thirty women 
underwent breast ultrasonography after finding asymmetry at mammography. Mammograms 
and sonograms were evaluated for site and type of asymmetry, associated calcifications, 
architectural distortion and change from the previous examination when available. Biopsy and 
histopathology was done for cases suspicious of malignancy. Results: 66.7% of cases had focal 
asymmetry and 33.3% had global asymmetry. Asymmetry mostly (76.7% of the cases) 
represented a normal variation of breast tissue distribution, post-operative changes, or other benign 
conditions such as fibrocystic changes, ductectasia, and inflammation. On the other hand, 23.3% 
of cases are proved to have malignancy. Conclusion: Asymmetric breast findings are mostly due 
to benign etiologies, however, the possibility of underlying malignant cause is also present in 
lower percentage especially when accompanied by other clinical and radiological suspicious 
findings. 

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