by Arlene Hauben

Created on: June 02, 2010

Mammography is a safe and non-invasive test to detect breast cancer.  It is 80 to 90 percent accurate in detecting an abnormality in your breast.  Recently, I went for a routine mammogram at a diagnostic center and there was confusion about the results. I was called back for additional views (pictures) to be taken and an ultrasound was also performed. 

When I left the center, I was worried and anxious to know the outcome, but the report went to my internist and I had to wait a week to find out what the report said.  When the doctor finally called me, he did not give me the full report, but just said that some fibrous tissue looked suspicious, and that it was "probably benign."  It was advised that I return in six months for another ultrasound to check for changes.

In an effort to understand the findings, I went to my internist's office and obtained a copy of the report so I could read it myself.  I noticed at the bottom of the report that the findings were BI-RADS 3, "probably benign." I did not have a clue what that meant.  My daughter and a friend both insisted I go see a breast surgeon.  My sister-in-law recommended a specialist and I am now under his care.

In the process, I have run across some valuable information that can help other women understand their mammography reports. Please note that a BI-RADS 3, 4 or 5 class deserves further attention. Regardless of what the technician tells you at the diagnostic center, seek out a breast surgeon where you can go for a second opinion.

When mammograms are reviewed by the radiologist, they are reported as one of six classes known as BI-RADS which are rated from 0 to 5:

BI-RADS 0—“Incomplete study, more new images or old images required.”  An additional mammogram and comparison to the first mammogram will need to be performed before a conclusion and number assignment can be made.

BI-RADS 1—“Normal.” Annual mammogram is typically advised.

BI-RADS 2—“Slightly Abnormal with features of little concern, previously present, or if biopsied, would lead to a benign diagnosis and; therefore, can be safely left alone and not commented on further”.  Annual mammogram is typically advised to be continued.

BI-RADS 3—“Abnormality present with a low probability of malignancy, usually less than 5%.”  A repeat of the mammogram along with a breast ultrasound or other imaging modality in four to six months

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