Stevens, who has been watching a lump in her breast, figured the test could only help. Soon, she should have the results. A California laboratory checks her sample and those of other women who have had the test to detect any abnormalities. Within a few weeks the results are sent to the doctor. Theoretically speaking, the process is similar to the Pap smear, in which cervical cells are examined under a microscope to look for changes that could signal cancer.
Ductal lavage offers similar information.
After reviewing the results, women whose cells indicate they are at high risk of developing breast cancer may opt to take drugs that can reduce that chance. Because these drugs carry adverse side effects, the more information the better, said Hung of Pro-Duct Health.