There are the two different types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic.
Screening mammogram
A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who don’t have any signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It isn’t meant to diagnose cancer, but screening mammography is used to determine if additional evaluation is necessary.
Diagnostic mammogram
Similar to a screening mammogram, a diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. The difference is that diagnostic mammography provides a more detailed view of the breast tissue.
A diagnostic mammogram is used to diagnose unusual breast changes and evaluate any abnormalities found on a screening mammogram.
What is 3D mammography or digital mammography?
3D mammography, which is also called 3D digital breast tomography, uses an X-ray rotation across the breast to create an image of the entire breast.
This 3D technology reduces false positive readings and improves early detection.
Learn more about 3D mammography.