[Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of the breast].

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Oncology

Context:

• Morphological and dynamic MRI evaluations can leave lesions indeterminate.
• Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) provides further characterization of these lesions.
• Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) maps aid in evaluating T2W hyperintense lesions.

Purpose:

• To elucidate the role of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in characterizing indeterminate lesions found during MRI.
• To correlate diffusion characteristics (restricted diffusion, low ADC values) with lesion cellularity and malignancy.
• To assess the utility of ADC maps and image fusion in improving lesion localization and categorization.

Summary:

• Suspicious lesions exhibit hyperintensity on DWI with low ADC values, signifying restricted diffusion and high cellularity.
• Benign lesions and tumors responding to therapy typically do not show diffusion restriction.
• Image fusion may be necessary for precise localization of enhancing lesions on ADC maps.
• Indeterminate lesions with hypocellularity suggest lower ACR categories, while restricted diffusion indicates higher categories.

Impact:

• DWI and ADC mapping enhance diagnostic accuracy for indeterminate MRI-detected lesions.
• This technique aids in differentiating benign from potentially malignant or aggressive tumors.
• Improved lesion characterization can guide further management and treatment decisions, potentially impacting patient outcomes.