The value of sonography in breast disease management at Mulago hospital

ABSTRACT

Seventy one consecutive patients presenting with breast symptoms to Mulago Hospital Radiology Department for the years 1990 and 1991 underwent breast sonography. They in addition all had conventional mammography performed. The results of sonography were analysed taking into consideration the clinical picture and mammographic findings. Breast biopsies were done where necessary. Abnormal sonographies were seen almost exclusively in patients with palpable lumps. The lesions were largely hypoechoic. Chronic inflammatory masses and carcinoma had similar appearance. Fibroadenosis a common entity showed no sonographic abnormality. Cystic lesions were well demonstrated with Ultrasound. Ultrasound is useful as a complementary breast imaging technique to mammography. It is ideal in demonstrating cystic lesions but shows no specific pictures for carcinoma. It cannot be used for routine screening