Category assessment based on 3D volume data acquired by automated breast ultrasonography

To assess the validity of categorization of ultrasonographic findings using automated breast ultrasonography (US).

Bilateral whole-breast US was performed using an automated breast volume scanner (ABVS) in 400 women. The 3D data were evaluated using the ABVS workstation, and final assessment categories were recorded based on the following criteria. Irregular-shaped masses with a spiculated margin or echogenic halo were defined as category 5. Solid masses with one of the three suspicious findings (no circumscribed margin, no parallel orientation, and microcalcifications) were defined as category 4a, and masses with two or more suspicious findings were defined as category 4b. For non-mass lesions, localized hypoechoic areas with one of the three suspicious findings (segmental distribution, ductal change, and microcalcifications) were defined as category 4a. Localized hypoechoic areas with two or three suspicious findings were defined as category 4b or 5, respectively.

Malignancy was confirmed histologically in 57 women (invasive, n = 38; in situ, n = 19). The rate of malignant findings was 0.6% (1/168) in category 3, 12% (15/129) in category 4a, 53% (31/59) in category 4b and 100% (10/10) in category 5.

Categorization of ultrasonographic findings using automated breast US are useful for predicting the likelihood of malignancy.