Review article
https://doi.org/10.48188/hczz.3.2.6
Comparison between breast magnetic resonance imaging and contrast - enhanced mammography
Jelena Teklić
; Sveučilišni odjel zdravstvenih studija Sveučilišta u Splitu, Split, Hrvatska
Tatjana Matijaš
orcid.org/0000-0003-0494-1601
; Sveučilišni odjel zdravstvenih studija Sveučilišta u Splitu, Split, Hrvatska
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Introduction: Imaging modalities such as contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used as valuable tools for understanding breast pathology. They enable early detection of breast cancer, provide a precise insi-ght into theslesions, and facilitate the monitoring of responses to treatment. Modern CEM improves the detection of breast abnor-malitiesfusing contrast agents and the combination of higher energy levels in a single examination. MRI uses magnetic fields and coils to produce detailed images of breast tissue in high-risk cases, and to evaluate suspicious findings with other imaging methods using different sequences.
Aim of the paper: The aim of the paper is to introduce CEM and MRI separately, while also identifying the strengths and wea-knesses of each technique. This will facilitate their direct comparison.
Discussion: CEM excels in detecting multifocal or contralateral lesions, assessing response to treatment, and identifying microcalcifications. Combining the power of mammography and contrast, CEM has the disadvantages of higher radiation dose, artifacts, and possible reactions to the use of iodinated contrast agent. In contrast, MRI provides detailed images, better lesion identification and treatment assessment and possesses exceptional contrast for breast soft tissue evaluation. It has proven invalua-ble for assessing implant condition and detecting lesions not seen on mammography images. This is crucial for high-risk cases and hiddenstumours. However, MRI has limitations such as artifacts and cost. CEM is a viable alternative to MRI, with high sensitivity.
Conclusion: The combined use of CEM and MRI has the potential to transform breast cancer treatment by improving diagnostic accuracy and enabling more personalized treatment approaches, especially in challenging cases, and among high-risk populations with dense breast tissue. With continued technological advances and standardization efforts, CEM and MRI will continue to play a critical role in early cancer detection, lesion characterization, and treatment monitoring, ultimately improving patient outcomes in the field of breast cancer.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
311650
URI
Publication date:
16.12.2023.
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