We agree with Dr. Moffat that our 45-year-old patient in whom we cannot palpate any lump should undergo mammography as part of her complete assessment.1 It is included in the program of breast screening that we recommended for her along with an annual clinical examination and instruction in breast self-examination.2 Undoubtedly, the message would have been clearer if we had called it a diagnostic mammogram which, if normal, could serve as the first mammogram of a screening program.
I am sure that all women would appreciate an additional clinical examination by their physician at the 6-month interval as Dr. Moffat suggests.