A BI-RADS 4 result on a mammogram means that an abnormality was found that has a suspicious chance of being cancer. Although many BI-RADS 4 findings are not cancer, additional testing is usually needed to identify the abnormality.
Because BI-RADS 4 findings have a moderate to high likelihood of malignancy, a breast biopsy is typically recommended to confirm the diagnosis. The risk of cancer depends on the specific imaging features and can range from about 2% to 95%.
A mammogram is a screening test used to detect breast cancer, and the BI-RADS system helps healthcare providers interpret the findings and recommend the appropriate follow-up. If you receive a BI-RADS 4 result, speak with a breast specialist or your healthcare provider as soon as possible about the recommended biopsy and whether additional imaging is needed.