A comparison between short-interval and regular-interval follow-up for BI-RADS category 3 lesions

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Breast Imaging

Background:

• Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) category 3 indicates a finding with a low probability of malignancy.
• Optimal follow-up intervals for BI-RADS 3 findings are crucial for timely cancer detection while minimizing unnecessary patient anxiety and healthcare costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of short-interval (six months) versus regular-interval (one year) follow-up for women with BI-RADS 3 screen imaging studies.
• To evaluate differences in image stability, image-detected breast cancer rates, and cancer stage at detection between the two follow-up groups.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1,036 women with BI-RADS 3 mammography and ultrasonography findings between 2003 and 2005.
• Women were divided into short-interval (6-month) or regular-interval (1-year) follow-up groups.
• Comparison of baseline characteristics, image stability, cancer detection rates, and cancer stage at detection.

Main Results:

• Breast cancer was detected in 7 women (0.7% positive predictive value) among the 1,036 participants with known cancer status at two years.
• No significant differences were observed between the short-interval and regular-interval follow-up groups regarding baseline characteristics.
• Image stability, rate of image-detected breast cancer, and cancer stage at detection were similar in both follow-up groups.

Conclusions:

• Short-interval and regular-interval follow-up strategies are equally effective for women with BI-RADS 3 screen imaging studies.
• The choice of follow-up interval does not significantly impact the detection rate or stage of breast cancer in this patient group.