Scientists from Radboud University have found that ultrasound is an effective diagnostic tool for women with localized chest pain, breast lumps or discharge. The research was published in the journal Radiology.
Researchers studied the cases of 1,961 women who complained of pain, swelling, or nipple discharge between September 2017 and June 2019. Ultrasound examination made it possible to make an accurate diagnosis in 90% of patients. More than 80% of the complaints were associated with benign findings such as cysts. 192 patients were diagnosed with breast cancer.
Some women also need a 3D mammogram, which gives an overall view of both breasts, while ultrasound can provide more localized imaging.
According to the authors, the use of ultrasound for focal breast complaints may be particularly helpful in low- and middle-income countries, where it is more affordable than 3D mammography. In addition, this procedure is much more comfortable for patients.