Use of Abbreviated Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Breast Cancer Screening

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive modality used for breast cancer screening, and is known to detect biologically significant cancers and few interval cancers. Application of standard breast MRI examination is not economical for screening due to the high costs associated with long interpretation and reading times. However, abbreviated breast MRI can reduce time and cost while maintaining diagnostic accuracy, and improve cost-effectiveness in breast cancer screening. A multi-center clinical trial on breast cancer screening using abbreviated breast MRI in high-risk women in Korea is being conducted. Another multicenter clinical trial has been conducted in the USA and Europe to investigate the efficacy of abbreviated breast MRI in women with average to intermediate cancer risk. Furthermore, when performed simultaneously with ultrafast MRI, the accuracy of abbreviated breast MRI can be enhanced. However, since abbreviated breast MRI uses contrast agents, it is important to consider the possibility of residual gadolinium in the body.

Keywords

• breast cancer
• screening
• magnetic resonance imaging
• gadolinium