What common pathology might be detected in a breast ultrasound?

The detection of cysts or solid masses is a significant reason for conducting a breast ultrasound. This imaging technique is particularly adept at identifying various breast abnormalities that may not be visible through mammography alone, especially in women with dense breast tissue.

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can occur in the breast and are often benign, but they require evaluation to rule out other conditions. Solid masses may include benign tumors like fibroadenomas or malignant tumors, necessitating further assessment to determine their nature and guide treatment. The breast ultrasound is invaluable for characterizing these masses by providing information about their size, shape, and composition, which helps in making informed decisions regarding further management.

While inflammatory diseases may also be assessed using ultrasound, the method's primary strength lies in visualizing cysts and solid masses. Bone fractures and muscle tears are not typically relevant pathologies examined in breast ultrasounds, as they pertain more to other imaging modalities like X-rays or MRIs focusing on musculoskeletal issues.