Not for emergencies. A new breast lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, or other breast symptoms should be evaluated by a licensed provider promptly. For urgent symptoms, contact your healthcare provider or go to urgent care/ER. DOD is not for emergency breast evaluation.
Breast Ultrasound: What Patients Should Know
Breast ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of breast tissue. It does not use ionizing radiation and is used to characterize breast masses (solid vs. cystic), evaluate dense breast tissue, and complement mammographic findings as directed by a licensed provider.
Educational content only. Breast health decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed provider or breast specialist. DOD does not perform or interpret breast ultrasound.
Quick Answer
Breast ultrasound uses sound waves (no radiation) to image breast tissue — particularly useful for characterizing masses found on mammography (solid versus cystic), supplementing screening in women with dense breast tissue, and evaluating palpable lumps. It is used alongside — not instead of — mammography in most clinical screening contexts. Provider orders are required at most facilities. DOD can review breast ultrasound order requests for eligible patients in supported states.
How Breast Ultrasound Is Used
Characterization of Mammographic Findings
Evaluating a mass or asymmetry found on screening or diagnostic mammogram — particularly to distinguish solid masses from simple cysts
Supplemental Screening for Dense Breast Tissue
According to the ACR, dense breast tissue can obscure findings on mammography. Supplemental ultrasound screening may be considered in women with dense breasts — discuss with your provider
Palpable Lump Evaluation
When a patient or provider notices a new lump, breast ultrasound may be ordered to characterize its internal characteristics
Axillary Lymph Node Evaluation
Ultrasound can evaluate lymph nodes in the axilla (underarm region) for size, shape, and internal architecture
Guidance for Procedures
Ultrasound may guide cyst aspiration, biopsy, or other interventions — these are clinical procedures performed by licensed providers, not related to DOD's scope
Post-Treatment Follow-Up
Monitoring breast tissue and surgical sites in certain post-treatment contexts as directed by a licensed provider
Educational only. Clinical appropriateness is determined by a licensed provider based on individual patient circumstances and clinical guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Breast Ultrasound — Patient Information — RadiologyInfo.org (ACR / RSNA)
- ACR Breast Imaging Resources — American College of Radiology (ACR)
- Mammograms and Breast Ultrasound — MedlinePlus (NIH)
Related Education and Order Pages
Need a Provider Review for a Breast Ultrasound?
$40 virtual provider review. Orders issued only when medically appropriate. Breast health decisions should involve your licensed provider.
Start Virtual Consult — $40Not for emergencies. Orders not guaranteed.
Educational content only. DOD does not perform or interpret breast ultrasound. Breast health management should be directed by a licensed provider.