(Breast Scintigraphy, Scintimammography, Radionuclide Breast Imaging, Molecular Breast Imaging)
A breast scan is a specialized radiology procedure used to assess the breasts when other examinations have been inconclusive.
A breast scan is a type of nuclear radiology procedure. This means that a tiny amount of a radioactive substance is used during the procedure to assist in the examination of the breasts. The radioactive substance, called a radionuclide (radiopharmaceutical or radioactive tracer), is absorbed by certain types of body tissues.
The radionuclide used in breast scans is usually a form of technetium. Once absorbed into the breast tissue, the radionuclide emits a type of radiation, called gamma radiation. The gamma radiation is detected by a scanner, which processes the information into a picture of the breasts.
By measuring the behavior of the radionuclide in the body during a nuclear scan, the doctor can assess and diagnose various conditions, such as tumors, abscesses, hematomas, organ enlargement, or cysts. A nuclear scan may also be used to assess organ function and blood circulation. Cancer cells take up more of the radionuclide than normal cells, and the cancer cells can be detected with a specialized camera.
A breast scan is used to identify breast cancer, especially in younger women, who usually have denser breasts than those of older women and for whom mammography may not be accurate. Other reasons for dense breast tissue can include fibrocystic disease, fatty tissue, previous breast surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, biopsy, or breast implants.
Other related procedures that may be used to evaluate breast problems include mammography, breast ultrasound, and breast biopsy. Please see these procedures for more information.
Each breast has 15 to 20 sections, called lobes, which are arranged like the petals of a daisy. Each lobe has many smaller lobules, which end in dozens of tiny bulbs that can produce milk.
The lobes, lobules, and bulbs are all linked by thin tubes called ducts. These ducts lead to the nipple in the center of a dark area of skin called the areola. Fat fills the spaces between lobules and ducts.
There are no muscles in the breast, but muscles lie under each breast and cover the ribs.
Each breast also contains blood vessels and vessels that carry lymph. The lymph vessels lead to small bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes, clusters of which are found under the arm, above the collarbone, and in the chest, as well as in many other parts of the body.
A mammography is generally used for routine screening, but a breast scan may be used when the results of mammography are uncertain or as an adjunct to mammography.
Other indications for a breast scan include follow-up after surgery, chemotherapy, or other breast cancer treatment. Staging of breast cancer may be determined with a breast scan. Another type of nuclear scan, called lymphoscintigraphy, may be used to determine whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes of the armpit.
There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend a breast scan.
The amount of the radionuclide injected into your vein for the procedure is small enough that there is no need for precautions against radioactive exposure. The injection of the radionuclide may cause some slight discomfort. Allergic reactions to the radionuclide are rare, but may occur.
For some patients, having to lie still on the scanning table for the length of the procedure may cause some discomfort or pain.
Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications, contrast dyes, or latex should notify their doctor.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify your health care provider due to the risk of injury to the fetus from a breast scan. If you are lactating, or breastfeeding, you should notify your health care provider due to the risk of contaminating breast milk with the radionuclide.
Imaging immediately before your menstrual period is contraindicated, as the results may be inaccurate.
There may be other risks depending on your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure.
A breast scan may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your doctor's practices.
Generally, a breast scan follows this process:
While the breast scan itself causes no pain, having to remain still for the length of the procedure might cause some discomfort or pain, particularly in the case of a recent injury or invasive procedure such as surgery. The technologist will use all possible comfort measures and complete the procedure as quickly as possible to minimize any discomfort or pain.
You should move slowly when getting up from the scanner table to avoid any dizziness or lightheadedness from lying flat for the length of the procedure.
You may be instructed to drink plenty of fluids and empty your bladder frequently for about 24 hours after the procedure to help flush the remaining radionuclide from your body.
The IV site will be checked for any signs of redness or swelling. If you notice any pain, redness, and/or swelling at the IV site after you return home following your procedure, you should notify your doctor as this may indicate an infection or other type of reaction.
You may resume your usual diet and activities, unless your doctor advises you differently.
Your doctor may give you additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on your particular situation.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.
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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
National Cancer Institute (NCI)