[Medical Q&A] How to arrange the frequency of breast nodule review?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Kong Xiangyi, deputy chief physician, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences

1. Malignant nodules

Malignant breast nodules mainly refer to breast cancer.

1. Within 2 years after breast cancer surgery, it is recommended to have a follow-up examination every 3 months.

2. 3 to 5 years after breast cancer surgery, the frequency of follow-up examinations can be adjusted to once every six months.

3. If it has been more than 5 years since breast cancer surgery, a follow-up examination once a year is sufficient.

Of course, if any discomfort occurs, you should always have a check-up. The frequency mentioned here is a recommendation if the condition is stable.

2. Benign nodules

1. Under normal circumstances, healthy people should undergo breast screening every year, and even benign nodules that have undergone minimally invasive surgery (such as excision surgery) should not be neglected for follow-up examinations.

2. BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) Category 3 nodules are recommended to be checked every six months; BI-RADS Category 4a nodules should be checked every three months if no surgery is performed. If the check-up results are stable, the doctor may downgrade it to BI-RADS Category 3 nodules, and the check-up frequency can be adjusted to once every six months, or even once every 12 months.

In short, the frequency of reexamination of breast nodules should be determined according to individual circumstances, and the wisest approach is to follow the professional advice of your doctor. Check regularly and take care of your breast health!