Which of the following procedures is necessary to establish a definitive diagnosis of breast cancer?
A . Diaphanography
B . Mammography
C . Thermography
D . Breast tissue biopsy
Answer: D
Explanation:
(A) Diaphanography, also known as transillumination, is a painless, noninvasive imaging technique that involves shining a light source through the breast tissue to visualize the interior. It must be used inconjunction with a mammogram and physical examination.
(B) Mammography is a useful tool for screening but is not considered a means of diagnosing breast cancers.
(C) Thermography is a pictorial representation of heat patterns on the surface of the breast. Breast cancers appear as a “hot spot” owing to their higher metabolic rate.
(D) Biopsy either by needle aspiration or by surgical incision is the primary diagnostic technique for confirming the presence of cancer cells.