Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 83%
Full-length
Which of the following procedures is necessary to establish a definitive diagnosis of breast cancer?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
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 in conjunction with a mammogram and physical examination. Mammography is a useful tool for screening but is not considered a means of diagnosing breast cancers. 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. Biopsy either by needle aspiration or by surgical incision is the primary diagnostic technique for confirming the presence of cancer cells.