Mammograms may be performed for screening or diagnostic purposes.
Screening Mammograms
Screenings involve producing images of both breasts in order to detect any tumors that cannot yet be felt under the skin. They can also detect calcium deposits that may indicate breast cancer.
Diagnostic Mammograms
Diagnostic mammograms are performed after a lump or other sign of breast cancer has been detected, or after abnormalities were present during a screening mammogram. This procedure targets a specific area of the breast and takes more detailed images from many different angles.