Understanding Ultrasound in Breast Cancer Screening

Introduction to Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women worldwide, and early detection is crucial for improving survival rates. In Hong Kong, breast cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, with over 4,600 new cases reported annually. Screening methods such as mammography, MRI, and ultrasound (usg breast) play a pivotal role in early diagnosis. Mammography is often the first-line screening tool, but it has limitations, especially for women with dense breast tissue. This is where ultrasound (USG breast) becomes invaluable, offering a complementary approach to detect abnormalities that mammograms might miss.

Role of Ultrasound in Breast Cancer Detection

Ultrasound (USG breast) uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the breast tissue. Unlike mammography, which uses X-rays, ultrasound is radiation-free, making it a safer option for frequent screenings. The technology works by sending sound waves into the breast and capturing the echoes as they bounce back, creating real-time images. One of the key advantages of ultrasound is its ability to distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, which mammography cannot always achieve. However, ultrasound has limitations, such as a higher rate of false positives and difficulty in detecting microcalcifications. It is typically recommended for women with dense breasts, those under 40, or as a follow-up to an abnormal mammogram.

Types of Breast Ultrasound

There are two primary types of breast ultrasound: handheld ultrasound and automated breast ultrasound (ABUS). Handheld ultrasound is the traditional method, where a radiologist manually moves a transducer over the breast. This allows for targeted imaging of specific areas but is operator-dependent. ABUS, on the other hand, uses a larger transducer to capture standardized images of the entire breast. It is particularly useful for screening women with dense breasts and can be combined with mammography for a more comprehensive evaluation. In Hong Kong, ABUS is gaining popularity due to its reproducibility and ability to reduce operator variability.

Interpreting Ultrasound Results

Radiologists analyze ultrasound images for features such as mass shape, margins, and internal echogenicity. The Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) categorizes findings into six categories, ranging from 0 (incomplete) to 6 (known malignancy). For example, a BI-RADS 3 result indicates a likely benign finding with a less than 2% chance of cancer, while a BI-RADS 4 suggests a suspicious abnormality requiring further evaluation. If your ultrasound shows abnormalities, your doctor may recommend additional imaging or a biopsy. In Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority provides guidelines for follow-up procedures based on BI-RADS categories to ensure timely and appropriate care.

Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

When an ultrasound detects a suspicious mass, an ultrasound-guided biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample. This minimally invasive procedure uses real-time ultrasound imaging to guide a needle to the exact location of the abnormality. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis to determine if cancer is present. Ultrasound-guided biopsies are highly accurate and associated with minimal discomfort. In Hong Kong, this procedure is widely available in public and private hospitals, with a high success rate in diagnosing breast cancer early.

Ultrasound as a Valuable Tool in Breast Cancer Management

Ultrasound (USG breast) has become an indispensable tool in breast cancer screening and diagnosis, particularly for women with dense breasts or those at higher risk. Its ability to provide real-time, radiation-free imaging makes it a safe and effective complement to mammography. In Hong Kong, the integration of ABUS into screening protocols has improved detection rates and reduced false positives. As technology advances, ultrasound will continue to play a critical role in the early detection and management of breast cancer, ultimately saving lives.