Which imaging modality is used to confirm the diagnosis of mammary ductal ectasia?

Mammary ductal ectasia is a condition characterized by the dilation of the milk ducts beneath the nipple, often leading to symptoms such as discharge, pain, and inflammation. The primary imaging modality used to evaluate breast conditions, including mammary ductal ectasia, is ultrasonography.

Ultrasonography is particularly useful in differentiating between various types of breast lesions and helps in assessing the presence of ductal dilation and any associated fluid collections, which are common in cases of ectasia. It is a non-invasive method that can effectively visualize the structure of breast tissue and the ducts, making it suitable for evaluating symptomatic patients.

In comparison, other imaging modalities like X-ray (mammography) can indicate changes in breast tissue but are less effective at providing detailed information on the ducts themselves. MRI can offer additional insight into breast pathology but is usually reserved for more complex cases or when further evaluation is necessary. Similarly, CT scans are not typically used for assessing mammary conditions due to their high radiation exposure and limited utility in soft tissue resolution compared to ultrasound. Thus, ultrasonography stands out as the preferred option for confirming the diagnosis of mammary ductal ectasia.