What aspect of breast tissue is evaluated primarily in mammography?

Mammography primarily focuses on evaluating the density and composition of breast tissue. This is crucial because the density of breast tissue plays a significant role in the detection of abnormalities such as tumors. Dense breast tissue may obscure lesions on a mammogram, making it crucial for radiologists to assess density accurately. Composition refers to the types of tissues present in the breast, including fat, glandular, and connective tissue. Understanding the variations in density and composition aids in determining the appropriate screening methods and can affect the radiological interpretation of images.

In mammographic evaluations, other factors like circulation patterns, vascular involvement, and temperature variations are not directly assessed. While these aspects might be relevant for other diagnostic modalities or medical conditions, they do not provide the specific insights that density and composition do in the context of breast imaging. This focus on tissue density and composition allows for better detection rates and improved breast cancer screening efficacy.