Dear AuntMinnie Member,
Ultrasound has won a strong supporting role for mammography in breast imaging, but the modality isn't ready to take the lead as a breast screening exam.
That's the opinion of surgical oncologist Dr. Edgar Staren, who discussed ultrasound breast screening at this month's American Society of Breast Surgeons conference in Baltimore. Contributing writer Crystal Phend was on hand to report for our Women's Imaging Digital Community.
Dr. Staren noted that a number of studies have highlighted ultrasound's ability to detect some cancers missed on mammography, particularly for women with dense breasts. But the technology is highly operator-dependent, and the clinical significance of these additional cancers is unknown.
Still, studies under way may be able to clarify ultrasound's role in breast screening. Learn more by clicking here.
In another article featured in the community this week, we hear from the mammography coordinator for the state of Florida, Dan Oakey, on the importance of being prepared for changes to the Mammography Quality Standards Act. The MQSA is due for renewal next year, and it's not too early to start preparing for any changes that might come down the pike.
Read all about it by clicking here, or view both stories and more by visiting the Women's Imaging Digital Community at womens.auntminnie.com.
