Breast cancer diagnosis
When you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, you likely have many questions about how life will change and what to expect. You want the right treatment so you can eliminate the cancer and get back to life.
An effective treatment plan begins with an accurate diagnosis. Our breast cancer imaging services include advanced tools, tests and procedures that rely on the latest techniques for a precise diagnosis.
Comprehensive evaluation by an expert team
Following your diagnosis and before starting treatment, you’ll be evaluated closely by a team of breast cancer experts from multiple disciplines. This is when all all of your providers get together in the same room to closely review your imaging tests and biopsy results and determine the right treatment path for you. Throughout your care, the team continues to meet weekly to review your progress.
You benefit from the collaboration of radiologists, oncologists, surgeons and other specialists sharing information and insight about your care. For example, if your diagnostic tests show a large tumor that requires surgery, you may receive targeted therapy or chemotherapy before surgery to shrink the tumor so your surgery can be less extensive and your recovery easier.
Navigating breast cancer can be difficult. Our nurse navigators guide you from diagnosis all the way through treatment and into survivorship. For a visual illustration, view our Breast Cancer Journey Maps:
Breast cancer staging
The first step to an individualized breast cancer treatment plan is accurately staging the disease. Breast cancer staging uses numbers 0-IV and TNM designations (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) to help describe the extent of the disease, such as if the cancer spread to the lymph nodes or other sites in the body.
Advanced breast diagnostic imaging
At Edward-Elmhurst Health, you have access to a full range of advanced breast imaging tools to accurately diagnosis and stage the disease:
Depending on your individual situation, your doctor may order other tests and procedures to diagnose and stage breast cancer.
Looking for a second opinion?
It can be overwhelming to receive a breast cancer diagnosis and then have to decide among treatment options. If you are exploring your options or looking for a second opinion, the clinical teams at Edward-Elmhurst Health — including renowned oncologists and specialty-trained nurse navigators — guide you through every step in the process.
Learn more about getting a second opinion for breast cancer.