Comprehensive Breast Imaging

Breast imaging is often the first step to the diagnosis of breast cancer. Radiologic procedures are an integral part of diagnosing and staging breast cancer. An imaging study can help find your cancer, plan your treatment and measure how well your treatment is working in addition to checking for recurrence. Every test has information your doctor needs to help treat your cancer.

We have invested in top-of-the-line imaging equipment to help your doctor detect your cancer early and provide accurate staging. This will help plan the best course of treatment. We offer:

Mammography

Routine mammography is one of the best ways to spot breast cancer in its early stages, when it is easier to treat. Most women begin regular screening mammograms at age 40, but some women may need to start screening at an earlier age, depending on risk factors. There are two types of mammograms.

Screening mammograms

Screening mammograms are the most common type of mammogram performed. A screening mammogram is performed once a year for patients with no breast symptoms. Typically, two views will be taken of each breast, and the radiologist will screen for any abnormality.

Diagnostic mammograms

Diagnostic mammograms are often performed after an abnormality is detected on a screening mammogram or as part of follow-up for patients with a history of cancer, biopsies or concerning breast symptoms such a lump. Patient-or-physician reported symptoms such as skin changes, masses, or nipple discharge may prompt additional films.

AtQuest Imaging, we can offer you a 3D mammogram, right here in Bakersfield. This test is much more sensitive than an average mammogram, and is often recommended for women with dense breast tissue.

Not sure how often you should have a mammogram? We offergenetic counselingto women with a family history of breast cancer. Meet with our team to find out if a genetic test is right for you, and use the results of that test to help you develop a customized screening program for breast cancer, based on your risk.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound is a test that helps to characterize a lesion as solid or cystic (fluid-filled). An ultrasound is ordered when the patient has a physical abnormality or if there is a lesion on a mammogram. Screening ultrasounds may be ordered as an adjunct to mammography for patients with dense breast tissue.

MRI

MRI is a technology that combines screening the breast tissue and the blood flow pattern in the breast to look for lesions. A screening MRI is indicated in patients who have an elevated lifetime risk for breast cancer such as those with a genetic predisposition, had prior chest wall radiation (for certain lymphomas), or if there is a greater than 20% lifetime risk of breast cancer. A diagnostic MRI is indicated to evaluate the size of cancer in the breast.