What are Contrast Mammography and Spectral Mammography?

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women. Therefore, early diagnosis and effective treatment methods are of great importance. Contrast-enhanced mammography and spectral mammography are two of the latest innovations in this field.

What is Contrast Mammography?

Contrast-enhanced mammography, in addition to the traditional mammography method, uses a special contrast agent to examine the breast tissue more clearly and in detail. During the procedure, contrast material is injected into the patient intravenously. This substance makes abnormal structures and cancerous cells in the breast tissue become more visible. Contrast-enhanced mammography is especially recommended for women with dense breast tissue and individuals with a history of breast cancer.

Benefits:

• Possibility of early diagnosis with high sensitivity.
• Minimizing the need for unnecessary biopsies by reducing false positive results.
• Can be used together with needle biopsy for breast cancer diagnosis.

What is Spectral Mammography?

Spectral mammography is an imaging technique used in digital mammography systems. This method images breast tissue in more detail by using x-rays at different energy levels. Spectral mammography helps distinguish different components of tissue, thus providing a more accurate diagnosis.

Benefits:

• The ability to see texture differences more clearly.
• Better discrimination of cancerous and healthy tissues.
• A non-invasive diagnostic method with fewer side effects.

Why is it important?

Both methods are effective tools in the early detection of breast cancer. Early diagnosis accelerates the treatment process and positively affects the course of the disease. These imaging methods highlight the importance of regular checkups to maintain women’s health.

Conclusion

Advanced imaging techniques, contrast-enhanced mammography and spectral mammography, play an important role in the early diagnosis of breast cancer. These methods offer important steps to protect the health of patients and increase their quality of life. It is of great importance for women to learn about these modern imaging methods and to have regular check-ups with their healthcare professionals.