Breast Cancer Diagnosis
How We Diagnose Breast Conditions: The Triple Assessment Approach
At i-BOCC Care, we follow a globally recommended, time-tested scientific process called Triple Assessment to diagnose any breast symptom with accuracy, speed, and minimal discomfort. Whether it’s a lump, nipple discharge, breast pain, or any other breast symptom, this 3-step method ensures that you get the right diagnosis the first time (Accuracy > 95%).
1. Clinical Breast Examination (CBE)
After reviewing medical history, family history, and other risk factors, Dr Ashutosh performs a thorough physical examination to check for:
- Any lump or thickening
- Skin or nipple changes
- Discharge or pain
- Lumps in armpit or neck
2. Imaging Tests
Depending on your age and the nature of the symptoms, you’ll be advised one or more of the following:
- Breast Ultrasound – Ideal for younger women or those with dense breasts
- Mammography – The gold standard for women above 40 or when cancer is suspected
- MRI of the Breast – Used selectively for detailed evaluation or high-risk patients, popularly known as the “problem solving tool”.
We follow ACR-BIRADS scoring to standardize findings and decide next steps.
3. A Needle Test
If examination and/or imaging raises a suspicion, a biopsy is done to confirm the diagnosis:
- Core Needle Biopsy – THE GOLD STANDARD
- Outpatient procedure done in local anaesthesia, quick, safe and painless.
- Accuracy is close to 100%
- Additional tests can be done after primary diagnosis
- Can be preserved for years.
- FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) – done for select patients, easy, quick results
- Excision Biopsy – Sometimes advised when diagnosis remains unclear
Why Triple Assessment Matters?
- Prevents unnecessary surgeries
- Ensures early and accurate diagnosis
- Helps plan the best personalised treatment
- Minimises fear and anxiety with clear answers fast
What to expect?
- A same-day consultation, imaging and biopsy in most cases. All under one roof
- A conclusive diagnosis and treatment plan typically within 3–5 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Is mammography painful?
Mammography may cause some discomfort or pressure during the procedure, but it is not typically painful for most women. The compression of the breast is necessary to get clear images from all corners of breast and lasts only a few seconds. Some women with more sensitive breasts or those undergoing the test just before or during their periods may experience more discomfort.
How do I prepare for mammography
- Schedule wisely: If you still get periods, try to book your mammogram one week after your period, when breasts are less tender.
- Avoid deodorants or powders: On the day of the test, don’t apply deodorants, perfumes, lotions, or powders under your arms or on your breasts. These can show up as spots on the X-ray.
- Wear a two-piece outfit: You’ll need to undress from the waist up, so a top and bottom combo is more convenient than a one-piece dress.
- Bring previous images: If you’ve had a mammogram before at another center, carry your old images or reports for comparison.
- Inform the technician: Tell them if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have breast implants.
It’s a simple, quick test that can be lifesaving when done at the right time.
Is a needle biopsy painful?
Only mildly uncomfortable. We use local anesthesia. The procedure is quick and most people tolerate it well. Post procedure, a pain killer is prescribed to keep you comfortable. Also, the you don’t need stitches or any change of dressings.
Why not directly remove the lump instead of doing a biopsy?
Blindly removing a lump without diagnosis may delay or complicate treatment. Biopsy tells us what we’re dealing with and helps plan the right surgery if needed. For example, removing a cancerous lump blindly can lead to too much or too less removal, leaving behind disease, repeat surgery for armpit, distorted breast.
Will I get my reports the same day?
Imaging reports are available the same day. Biopsy reports may take 2–5 days depending on the tests required.
Is a mammogram safe? What if I’m young?
Mammograms are very low-dose X-rays and safe. A flight from Mumbai to London and back will have the same radiation exposure as a mammogram and the body tolerates it quite well without any long-term effects.
If you’re under 35, we usually prefer breast ultrasound as the first step, because it gives better answers.
What if I’ve already done some tests elsewhere?
We’ll review them and only repeat what’s necessary. We follow a no-over-testing principle.
Is this process expensive?
Triple assessment is cost-effective in the long run. It helps avoid unnecessary surgeries, wrong treatments, and repeated hospital visits. Our costs are quite affordable to most people, but we could consider concessions on case to case basis.
Final Note
Breast cancer treatment is not one-size-fits-all. With the expertise of Dr. Ashutosh Tondare at i-BOCC Care, patients receive care that is advanced, holistic, and compassionate.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be treated as medical advice. Always consult a qualified cancer specialist for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
