Breast Imaging Results
Understanding Your Results and Next Steps
Breast imaging results can include routine screening recommendations, additional imaging, short-term follow-up, or biopsy. Understanding the wording of your result can help you know what may happen next.
Start with the recommendation you received
Choose the result or next step that most closely matches the information you received from your breast center.
I was called back after a mammogram
Additional imaging is commonly performed to evaluate an area more closely.
Learn about this next stepMy result says BI-RADS
BI-RADS is the standardized assessment used in breast imaging reports.
Learn about this next stepI was told to return in six months
Short-interval follow-up is commonly used for findings considered probably benign.
Learn about this next stepI need a biopsy
A biopsy may be recommended when imaging cannot fully determine the nature of a finding.
Learn about this next stepMy result mentions dense breasts
Breast density is common and may affect mammogram interpretation and screening recommendations.
Learn about this next stepI received pathology results
Pathology reports describe tissue obtained during a biopsy or surgery.
Learn about this next stepReport Guide
Understanding Your Breast Imaging Report
Breast imaging reports contain sections such as findings, impression, BI-RADS assessment, and recommendations. Our guide explains where to find the most important information.
Explore the Report GuideResults Education
Explore Results and Findings
Browse clear explanations of common report terms and recommendations.
Results and callbacks
BI-RADS assessments
Common imaging findings
After a biopsy
Important to Know
A recommendation for more testing does not automatically mean cancer
Callbacks, short-term follow-up, and biopsies are used to evaluate findings more completely. Many findings ultimately prove benign. Your breast center will explain the recommended next step based on your imaging result and medical history.
Breast Center Support
Need help from our breast care team?
For appointment questions, location details, or next-step instructions, use the breast center's normal contact channels.