What Causes Dark Bruises After A Routine Mammogram?

Posted on Tue, 11 Nov 2014

Question: Went in day before yesterday for a routine mammogram, went to shower tonight and saw dark bruises practically in my armpit (thought it was XXXXXXX from a new black shirt until I remembered the shirt isn't black and I couldn't wipe off the discoloration with a washcloth) This is my "smaller" breast. There was much pulling and pinching of course, but is this normal?

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (50 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It is uncommon but not unheard of in mammography

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your query in detail.
Having worked as a radiologist in a cancer institute where 5 - 10 mammograms were done every day, the situation you are experiencing is uncommon but not unheard of. There can be bruising, pain and discomfort in one or both breasts for upto 2-3 days following mammography procedure. This happens due to the manipulation (pulling and pinching as described by you) of the skin over breast during radiographic positioning.

If the bruising is present for more than 3 days then you should consult your doctor and get tested for any possible bleeding tendency.

Hope this answers your question. Please feel free to correct any oversight in my interpretation of your problems and discuss them in detail as per your requirements.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar