Breast Cancer Coordinated Diagnostic Evaluation
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Why choose UCSF Health for your mammogram and breast biopsy?
Waiting to find out what an abnormal mammogram or breast lump means can be stressful. At UCSF Health, we deliver streamlined breast imaging, biopsies and expert diagnoses. Our seamlessly coordinated services save you time, minimize appointments and help relieve anxiety by providing prompt results from experts you can count on.
Why choose UCSF Health for your mammogram and breast biopsy?
Waiting to find out what an abnormal mammogram or breast lump means can be stressful. At UCSF Health, we deliver streamlined breast imaging, biopsies and expert diagnoses. Our seamlessly coordinated services save you time, minimize appointments and help relieve anxiety by providing prompt results from experts you can count on.
Get care
Expert team
Our breast surgeon, pathologist, radiologist and nurse practitioner, who all specialize in breast diseases, work together to deliver an accurate diagnosis.Advanced breast imaging
We offer the most sophisticated breast imaging available, including 3D mammography, breast MRI and ultrasound-guided biopsies.Convenient access
Screening mammograms are available at UCSF Health locations throughout the Bay Area. You can schedule your breast imaging appointment online.Breast cancer screening and prevention
People with an increased breast cancer risk can get assessments, genetic counseling and personalized screening recommendations.
What to expect during your diagnostic appointment
Consultation. You meet with our specialized nurse practitioner, who reviews your mammogram results. If you had a mammogram outside of UCSF Health, we get the images before your appointment.
Imaging. Our nurse practitioner may order additional tests, such as another mammogram or breast MRI. We reserve appointments in our imaging facility so you can get these tests promptly.
Breast exam. Our nurse practitioner does a breast exam to check for lumps. They also look for other concerning symptoms, such as pain, swelling or skin changes.
Diagnostic evaluation. We review your diagnostic imaging. If more information is needed to make a diagnosis, we may recommend a breast biopsy.
Breast biopsy. If needed, we schedule a breast biopsy. During this procedure, we remove a sample of breast tissue and a pathologist evaluates it for signs of cancer.
After your breast biopsy
If your biopsy indicates a benign (noncancerous) breast condition, you receive personalized recommendations for screenings, self-exams and lifestyle modifications.
If we do find breast cancer, treatment can begin as quickly as possible. Our team refers you to the appropriate specialist, such as a breast surgeon or medical oncologist. All the breast care services you need are available at locations throughout the Bay Area as part of our renowned UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Excellence in patient care
Best in California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care
Accredited breast imaging center of excellence
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
- Abnormal Mammogram
- Benign Breast Disease
- Breast Cancer
- Breast Diseases
- Breast Lump
Treatments
- Breast Biopsy
- Breast Cancer Screening
- Breast Examination
Support services
Art for Recovery
Creativity can help people with serious illnesses cope, heal and express what they're going through. Find out about our program and how to join.
UCSF Patient Support Corps
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is stressful. Get guidance, support and answers to your questions here as you consider your options and make decisions.
Cancer Exercise Counseling
Our one-on-one exercise training sessions, customized for your needs and abilities, can complement other cancer treatments and speed your recovery.
Cancer Support Groups
These groups offered by the Ida and Joseph Friend Patient and Family Cancer Support Center are free and available to all patients, whether or not you get your health care at UCSF.
Core and More Class for Cancer Patients
A strong body helps you fight cancer and enjoy life. Join this class to stabilize your core, strengthen your muscles and improve overall fitness. For cancer patients and caregivers!
Friend to Friend Specialty Shops
A one-stop boutique for patients with cancer. Get professional help with wigs, prostheses, sun-protective clothing, makeup, skin care and more.
Meditation and Guided Imagery for Cancer Patients
Drop in for a free class designed to help you heal, relax and find balance during your treatment. UCSF and non-UCSF patients are welcome.
Oncology Social Work
Social workers offer support, problem-solving, help accessing UCSF cancer-related resources and more. Find out how to contact the social worker for your clinic.
Patient & Family Cancer Support Center
The center offers wellness programming, community, support groups, classes, workshops and more at no cost to people facing cancer and their loved ones.
Peer Support Programs for Cancer
Patients are matched with peer support volunteers according to criteria such as diagnosis, cancer stage, age or gender. Speak to someone who's "been there."