In most cases, a technologist will organize and perform mammography or breast ultrasound , and the radiologist will read the results. Some radiologists also perform image guided breast biopsies . Radiologists who must intervene with a patient by surgery or other means to conduct an imaging test are called interventional radiologists. An oncologist is a medical doctor who trains in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. If a radiologist detects breast cancer, a woman may be referred to an oncologist for treatment.
Medical oncologists specialize in the use of chemotherapy and other drugs to treat cancer.
Radiation oncologists specialize in the use of x-rays and other radiation methods to kill tumors. Though most breast surgeries are done by general surgeons, s urgical oncologists also perform operations to remove cancer. Oncology nurse specialists may prepare and administer treatments, monitor patients, prescribe and provide aftercare, and teach and counsel patients and their families. Some oncology nurse specialists are also certified nurse practitioners. More specifically, an oncology social worker deals with the non-medical crises that can result from cancer, such as financial problems, housing when treatments must be taken at a facility far away from home, and child care.