CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

In mammography, which of the following positions is utilized to best visualize the breast's axillary tail?

1. CC position

2. ML position

3. MLO position

4. LM position

The correct answer is: MLO position

The correct position for best visualizing the breast's axillary tail is the MLO position, which stands for Mediolateral Oblique. This position is especially effective for imaging the axillary tail because it allows for an angled view that captures more of the lateral and upper portions of the breast. The MLO projection is designed to include the axillary tail while maximizing tissue visualization and minimizing superimposition of structures. In mammography, the axillary tail is an extension of breast tissue that can contain important pathology, and it is crucial to ensure that this area is well visualized during screening. The MLO position effectively aligns the x-ray beam with the anatomy of the breast, allowing for improved detection of any abnormalities present in that area. Other positions, while helpful for different areas and viewpoints, do not focus on the axillary tail with the same efficacy as the MLO position. For instance, the CC (Craniocaudal) position typically captures the breast in a top-down view but may not include the lateral extent adequately. The ML (Mediolateral) position offers a side view but lacks the angled approach necessary for optimal axillary tail visualization. Lastly, the LM (Lateromedial) position conversely captures the breast