Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Diagnostic mammogram
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Diagnostic mammogram: An X-ray of the breast done to evaluate:
- Abnormalities seen or suspected on a prior screening mammogram;
- Subjective or objectives abnormalities in the breast such as a lump, pain, thickening, nipple discharge or a inexplicable change in breast size or shape;
- Breasts for which it is difficult to obtain a clear X-ray by a screening mammogram because of special circumstances such as breast implants.
A diagnostic mammogram takes longer and involves correspondingly more radiation exposure than a screening mammogram because it involves more X-rays.