Why do mammogram results take so long

Some of the topics we can assist with include: Referrals to patient-related programs or resources Donations, website, or event-related assistance Tobacco-related topics Volunteer opportunities Cancer Information For medical questions, we encourage you to review our information with your doctor. Call us at Available any time of day or night. Why might I be called back? How can I stay calm while waiting?

Sometimes when more mammograms are taken of an abnormal-looking area, or the area is compressed more, it no longer looks suspicious. At our National Cancer Information Center trained Cancer Information Specialists can answer questions 24 hours a day, every day of the year to empower you with accurate, up-to-date information to help you make educated health decisions.

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There are different types of breast biopsies, some of which are done using a small, hollow needle and some that are done through a cut in the skin. Often, it just means more mammograms or other tests such as an ultrasound need to be done to get a closer look at an area of concern.

How long does a mammogram take? Scanning and results

The radiologist sees an area that just looks different from other parts of the breast. You might be told one of the following:.

Chat live online Select the Live Chat button at the bottom of the page. American Cancer Society medical information is copyrighted material. In fact, most often the additional images show the finding isn't cancer. Most biopsy results are not cancer, but a biopsy is the only way to find out.

How long does a mammogram take?

Online Help. You might have strong emotions, such as disbelief, anxiety, fear, anger, or sadness during this time. Breast Cancer. The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team. On this page. Breast Cancer About Breast Cancer. The radiologist doctor who reads the mammogram sees something suspicious, such as calcifications or a mass which could be a cyst or solid mass. Download Section as PDF. Getting Called Back After a Mammogram.

If you do need more tests, ask your doctor about how quickly these tests can be scheduled. Our team is made up of doctors and oncology certified nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as journalists, editors, and translators with extensive experience in medical writing. We connect patients, caregivers, and family members with valuable services and resources. We can connect you with trained cancer information specialists who will answer questions about a cancer diagnosis and provide guidance and a compassionate ear.

You will most likely be given the results of your tests during the visit. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy. Here are some things to remember:. During a breast biopsy , small pieces of breast tissue are removed and checked for cancer under a microscope. Diseases of the Breast. Or ask us how you can get involved and support the fight against cancer. This can vary based on a number of factors, such as how busy the testing centers are in your area.

Chapter Imaging Analysis: Mammography. Schedule a Video Chat Face to face support. What if I need a biopsy? Skip to main content. In fact, fewer than 1 in 10 women called back for more tests are found to have cancer. What will happen at the follow-up appointment? The type you have depends on things like how suspicious the area looks, how big it is, where it is in the breast, other medical problems you might have, and your personal preferences.