Diagnostic Mammography
Problem-solving mammography for a specific finding — palpable lump, nipple discharge, recall from screening, or short-interval follow-up of BI-RADS 3 findings. Differs from screening in that a radiologist directs the exam in real time, ordering additional views (spot compression, magnification, true lateral, rolled views) until the finding is characterized or worked up further with ultrasound or biopsy.
Clinical pathway
- History + intake — specific complaint, location, duration.
- Standard CC + MLO if not already available.
- Directed views — spot compression for asymmetry, magnification for calcifications, true lateral for localization.
- Real-time radiologist review + additional imaging — tomosynthesis, targeted ultrasound.
- BI-RADS assessment + recommendation — additional imaging, short-interval follow-up, or biopsy.
Typical systems
Room + procedure characteristics
- Exam time: 30–60 min vs 10–15 for screening
- Dose: slightly higher than screening due to additional views
- Team: dedicated breast imager + mammographer; often co-scheduled with breast ultrasound