Comparison with previous mammograms is one of the most reliable ways to reduce unnecessary recalls and to catch subtle change. A stable asymmetry over several years needs a different response from a new or developing one.
Where priors are held at another centre, it is worth the effort to obtain them before recalling the woman, unless the finding is clearly suspicious.
- Request prior mammograms before reporting a screening study wherever possible.
- Note in the report whether priors were available and compared.
- A new or enlarging finding outweighs one that has been stable for years.
- Do not delay recall for a clearly suspicious lesion while chasing priors.
Why it matters
Priors turn many apparent abnormalities into reassuring stability.
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