Tumor size is highly related to prognosis. In most cases, the smaller the tumor, the better the chances are for long-term survival. A health care provider can estimate the size of the tumor by feeling it during a physical exam. Images from an ultrasound or mammogram can also be used to estimate tumor size. The best and most accurate way to assess size is to measure the entire tumor after it has been removed from the breast by surgery.
Updated 10/26/09
