The goal of diagnostic ultrasound is to

• A. Greatly reduce the need for mammography
• B. Further characterize abnormalities found on mammography and/or palpable/clinical abnormalities
• C. Screen asymptomatic women
• D. Determine genetic risk

Answer: (B)

Diagnostic ultrasound is used as a problem‑solving step in breast imaging. Its main purpose is to further characterize a lesion detected on a mammogram or found on a palpable or clinical exam, by determining if it is solid or cystic, assessing margins and internal architecture, and sometimes evaluating vascularity with Doppler. This information helps decide whether a lesion appears benign or suspicious and guides biopsy if needed. It does not replace mammography to screen asymptomatic women, and it is not used to determine genetic risk; those tasks come from routine screening protocols or genetic testing and family history. In sum, ultrasound serves to clarify and characterize abnormalities already seen on other imaging or physical examination.