[Radiologic types in mammography in the 90-s. New classification]

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Breast Imaging

Background:

• The 1986 mammography classification system requires review due to evolving screening practices.
• Screening asymptomatic populations has changed mammography indications.
• Personal experience and a large dataset inform this critical analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the 1986 mammography classification.
• To analyze radiological factors in 6,072 mammographies.
• To interpret findings in light of current screening trends.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 6,072 non-selected mammographies over 12 months.
• Focus solely on radiological factors, excluding clinical or epidemiological data.
• Comparison of current findings with the 1986 classification system.

Main Results:

• The trabecular type (33.7%) is now the most common, particularly in women in their 40s.
• The fibroadipose type (26.8%) has decreased in relative frequency due to earlier mammography initiation.
• Increased mammographic screening in younger, asymptomatic women is evident.

Conclusions:

• Mammography's diagnostic value for asymptomatic women is widely recognized.
• Standardization of mammography techniques and inter-center data exchange are crucial for diagnostic accuracy.
• The shift towards earlier mammography necessitates updated classification and interpretation approaches.