What's the alternative imaging for palpable subcutaneous cord on breast, suspected mondor disease when underlying cancer concern (older woman, new lesion)?

Q: What's the alternative imaging for palpable subcutaneous cord on breast, suspected mondor disease when underlying cancer concern (older woman, new lesion)?

MG — Diagnostic mammogram + targeted US (no contrast).

Imaging recommendation · Breast

Palpable subcutaneous cord on breast, suspected Mondor disease

Recommended: Diagnostic Mammogram + Ultrasound (tubular avascular structure) is the preferred imaging study for palpable subcutaneous cord on breast, suspected mondor disease. Superficial thrombophlebitis of breast / chest wall veins.

Recommended study

Diagnostic Mammogram + Ultrasound (tubular avascular structure)

US No contrast Preferred Breast Outpatient Reviewed 2026-05

Superficial thrombophlebitis of breast / chest wall veins. Often idiopathic; can follow trauma, surgery, breast cancer.

If the default doesn't apply

Underlying cancer concern (older woman, new lesion)

MG Diagnostic mammogram + targeted US No contrast

Watch-outs

Search for underlying cancer

10-15% have underlying breast cancer — always image the breast.

Pearls

Linear palpable cord; tubular hypoechoic / anechoic structure on US without flow.
Self-limited; NSAIDs for pain; resolves over weeks.
Distinguish from inflammatory breast cancer (diffuse skin thickening + erythema).