Table 1 The ultrasonic appearances of the structures of the lactating breast (adapted from Geddes [3])
From: The use of ultrasound to identify milk ejection in women – tips and pitfalls
Structures of the breast | Ultrasonic appearance of the lactating breast |
|---|---|
Milk ducts | Hypoechoic, can contain echogenic flecks representing milk fat globules Echogenic walls may be visible when insonated at 90 degrees Easily compressible Distend at milk ejection Resting state 2 mm (range;1–10 mm) |
Skin | Hyperechoic Increased thickness in the areola region |
Coopers ligaments | Hyperechoic |
Stromal fibrous tissue | Predominantly hyperechoic – tends to be more echogenic with more milk in the breast |
Adipose tissue | Hypoechoic, variable amounts Large breasts often contain a large proportion of adipose tissue |
Arteries and veins | Hypoechoic, demonstrate blood flow on colour Doppler imaging |