These screening and diagnostic tests help determine your BI-RADS score.
A BI-RADS number reveals to your healthcare providers anything that may look potentially abnormal.
It can also help them quantify how concerning the finding is.
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This article will explain the BI-RADS classifications and what they mean for your health.
It is often used in breast cancer screening.
The report will include the size, location, shape, and any other details about a breast mass.
Your score provides details about the possible diagnosis and whether additional testing is necessary.
Your BI-RADS score is part of your mammogram report.
It will include information about the density of your breasts and whether there are abnormalities that need further testing.
Your healthcare provider can explain your BI-RADS score when they discuss the results of your mammogram.
BI-RADS Classifications and What They Mean
Your BI-RADS score is a number between 0 and 6.
Each number corresponds to a classification that estimates your breast cancer risk based on the imaging test.
This does not necessarily mean your healthcare provider is worried about breast cancer.
Category 3: Probably Benign
A score of 3 refers to a finding of uncertain significance.
Short-term follow-up is ordered to double-check that the finding remains stable.
Abreast biopsyis often recommended to check the suspicious area.
A biopsy is recommended to make an accurate diagnosis.
Conditions such asadenosis,fat necrosis,radial scars, andmastitiscan sometimes look like cancer on a mammogram.
If this is the case, treatment is necessary.
This can includesurgery,chemotherapy, and/orradiation.
The imaging test is being obtained as part of the treatment or follow-up plan.
The number is not a substitute for a clinical exam.
It is important to follow the guidelines for recommended screening tests, and follow-up tests if recommended.
The BI-RADS score is a useful way to compare and standardize breast imaging studies.
A follow-up mammogram may be recommended in a few months afterward.
Malignantor “probably malignant"findings indicate that you will probably need a biopsy.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Important Information: Final Rule to Amend the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA).
American College of Radiology.BI-RADS Atlas, 5th edition.
