Normal Values:

Breast tissue that shows no signs of a mass or calcification is considered normal.

What abnormal results mean:

Most abnormal findings on a screening mammogram turn out to be benign or nothing to worry about. However, any new findings or changes must be further evaluated.

A radiology doctor may see the following types of findings on a mammogram:

• A well-outlined, regular, clear spot (this is more likely to be a noncancerous condition such as a cyst)
• Masses or lumps
• Dense areas in the breast that can be breast cancer or hide breast cancer
• Calcifications, which are caused by tiny deposits of calcium in your breast tissue. Most calcifications are not a sign of cancer. See: Mammogram - calcifications for more information.

The American College of Radiology (ACR) has developed a grading system for radiology doctors to use when they report the results of a mammogram. Terms you may hear your doctor use include:

• Negative
• Benign (noncancerous) finding
• Probably benign
• Suspicious abnormality
• Highly suggestive of malignancy or cancer

Often, the following tests are also needed:

• Additional mammogram views -- called magnification or compression views
• Breast MRI exam
• Compare your current mammogram to your past mammograms. This will help tell whether you had an abnormal finding in the past, and whether it has changed.
• Sometimes, the doctor will use ultrasound to further examine your breast and determine the next best step

When mammogram or ultrasound results look suspicious, a biopsy is done to test the tissue and see if it is cancerous. See also:

• Breast biopsy - stereotactic
• Breast biopsy - ultrasound