Patients who have recently received a COVID vaccine and are due for their screening mammogram may consider delaying their screening appointment 4-6 weeks following their second dose. This is due to a Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) report that suggests sites are seeing some patients with ipsilateral axillary tenderness and mild adenopathy following the COVID vaccine. When seen on a screening mammogram, enlarged lymph nodes would require the patient to undergo additional ultrasound testing.
If patients still desire to have their screening mammogram in that window of COVID vaccination, the vaccination information should be documented on the patient’s mammogram history form.
For patients with axillary symptoms, it is recommended that patients be asked about recent vaccinations and specifically which arm received the shot; this information should be documented on the mammogram history form.
Johnson Memorial Health Services offers both 2D and 3D Mammography at their clinic in Dawson. For women at average risk, screening mammograms should be performed annually beginning at age 40 to check the breasts for any early signs of breast cancer. To schedule a yearly mammogram call 320-769-4323.
