Mammogram

Mammography: A Powerful Tool with Potential Pitfalls

Mammography, a type of X-ray imaging that examines breast tissue, has been a cornerstone of breast cancer detection for decades. While mammograms remain a valuable tool in early detection, it’s important to understand its history, limitations, and potential for medical malpractice claims.  

A Brief History of Mammography

The development of mammography dates back to the early 20th century. In the 1960s, Dr. Robert Egan and Dr. Philip Goodenough, pioneers in breast imaging, developed the first dedicated mammography unit. This breakthrough allowed for more detailed images of breast tissue, significantly improving the accuracy of breast cancer detection.  

Who Should Get a Mammogram?

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) provides guidelines on mammogram screenings. Generally, women aged 40-44 should have the choice to start annual mammograms, while women 45-54 should get annual mammograms. Women 55 and older can transition to biennial screening mammograms or continue annual screening. However, individual risk factors, such as family history or genetic mutations, may influence these recommendations.  

Who Administers and Interprets Mammograms?

Mammograms are typically administered by specially trained technologists at imaging centers or hospitals. The images are then interpreted by radiologists, physicians who specialize in medical imaging. Radiologists analyze the mammograms for any abnormalities, such as lumps, calcifications, or unusual tissue densities, which may indicate potential cancer.  

How is a Mammogram Administered?

During a mammogram, the patient stands facing the mammography machine. The technologist positions the breast on a clear plastic plate and compresses it gently between two plates. This compression helps to flatten the breast tissue, providing a clearer image. The process is repeated for each breast, taking images from different angles.  

What Can a Mammogram Show?

Mammography is highly effective at detecting early-stage breast cancer, when it’s most treatable. It can identify:  

• Lumps: Abnormal growths in the breast tissue.  
• Calcifications: Tiny calcium deposits that can be a sign of cancer.  
• Architectural distortions: Changes in the normal structure of the breast tissue.  

What a Mammogram Cannot Show

While mammography is a valuable tool, it has limitations:

• False Positives: Mammograms can sometimes detect abnormalities that are not cancerous, leading to unnecessary biopsies and anxiety.  
• False Negatives: In some cases, mammograms may miss early-stage cancers, particularly in dense breast tissue.  
• Limited Detection in Dense Breasts: Women with dense breast tissue may require additional imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, to supplement mammography.  

Potential Medical Malpractice Claims Related to Mammograms

Several factors can contribute to medical malpractice claims involving mammograms:

• Failure to Detect Cancer: If a radiologist fails to identify a cancerous lesion on a mammogram, and the cancer is subsequently diagnosed at a later, more advanced stage, this could lead to a malpractice claim.  
• Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: If a radiologist delays in diagnosing breast cancer, resulting in a delay in treatment and a worse prognosis, the patient may have grounds for a malpractice claim.  
• Misinterpretation of Results: Incorrect interpretation of mammogram results can lead to unnecessary biopsies, anxiety, and potential harm.  
• Failure to Recommend Additional Testing: If a patient’s risk factors warrant additional imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, and the physician fails to recommend them, this could contribute to a malpractice claim.

Conclusion

Mammography remains a vital tool in the early detection of breast cancer. However, it’s essential to understand its limitations and potential for error. Patients should be aware of their risk factors and discuss with their healthcare providers the appropriate screening schedule. If you believe you have been the victim of medical malpractice related to a mammogram, it’s important to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss your legal options.

Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.