Diagnosing breast cancer

Palpation

Changes in the breast can be spotted through regular self-examination. You should check yourself in front of a mirror so that you can also see any external changes in the breasts. Self-examination should preferably be carried out between the seventh and twelfth day of the menstrual cycle. However, self-examination is no substitute for a physical examination (palpation) by a doctor or further imaging tests.  

Mammograms

A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast. It is used in the early detection of breast cancer and to clarify any palpable findings or other clinical abnormalities of the breast. Tomosynthesis (a 3D mammography technique) is used to create individual layer images of the breast for greater diagnostic accuracy.  

Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound can be used to supplement a mammogram. It is the preferred examination method for young women, for further clarification of palpable findings and abnormalities in mammograms, and is also used as a supplement to mammograms in cases of dense mammary gland tissue.  

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging of the breast is used for specific issues; this does not use ionising radiation.  

Biopsy procedures - Punch biopsy or vacuum-assisted biopsy

A tissue sample can be used to definitively determine whether palpable findings or other clinical abnormalities are benign or malignant changes. At the Breast Centre in Zurich, we perform a variety of image-guided punch biopsies of the breast: Ultrasound-guided punch biopsies and vacuum-assisted biopsies, as well as tomosynthesis-guided vacuum-assisted biopsies. We can also arrange an MRI-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy. The tissue removed during this process is tested in the laboratory for various biological characteristics. Subsequent individual treatment is then planned on the basis of these specific characteristics.  

Blood tests for breast cancer

Blood tests cannot be used to detect breast cancer. However, in combination with other tests and examinations, they provide valuable information about your general health, your organ function, and whether a treatment is working. Here you can find out how blood tests are used at Affidea brustCare.

What does a blood test show in breast cancer?

A blood test cannot directly diagnose breast cancer. However, it can provide important information for your personal treatment plan. Your doctor uses this to better assess your health, plan your treatment or monitor your progress.  

The following values, among others, are analysed in the laboratory:

• Blood count (white and red blood cells and platelets)
• The functional values of the kidneys, liver and bones
• Tumour markers such as CA 15-3 and CEA  

Tumour markers are substances, such as proteins, that are produced by cancer cells, sometimes in large quantities. They can provide clues as to whether a treatment is effective in advanced breast cancer. However, they are not reliable for diagnosis alone, as their values can also be influenced by other factors.  

When is a blood test advisable?

A blood test can be used to check whether you are physically ready for your treatment. In cases of advanced or metastatic breast cancer in particular, blood tests are carried out regularly to monitor the patient's condition and adjust the treatment accordingly.

A blood test is also useful during the initial diagnosis: It provides important information about your state of health. However, the actual diagnosis is always made by means of a tissue biopsy. You can find out more about this on our relevant webpage.  

Who covers the costs?

If your consultant requests a blood test, the cost of this is usually covered by basic insurance. If additional costs are incurred, you will be notified in advance by your doctor or your health insurance provider.