[Phase contrast imaging of the breast. Basic principles and steps towards clinical implementation]

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths globally.
• Mammography, while standard, has limitations in sensitivity and positive predictive value, especially in dense breasts, due to low contrast.
• Improving soft tissue contrast is crucial for effective breast diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of phase contrast imaging principles for breast diagnostics.
• To describe recent advancements in in vivo and ex vivo phase contrast imaging of the breast.
• To highlight the potential of phase contrast imaging in overcoming mammography's limitations.

Main Methods:

• Phase contrast imaging utilizes the phase shift of X-rays when passing through materials with different refractive indices.
• Exploration of phase contrast mammography and phase contrast computed tomography (CT).
• Review of developments in both in vivo and ex vivo applications for breast imaging.

Main Results:

• Phase contrast imaging demonstrates improved soft tissue contrast compared to conventional methods.
• Studies indicate that phase contrast imaging provides additional diagnostic information.
• Both phase contrast mammography and CT show potential for enhanced breast cancer detection.

Conclusions:

• Phase contrast imaging offers a promising advancement for breast diagnostics.
• The technology has the potential to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of breast cancer screening.
• Further development and application of phase contrast imaging are recommended for clinical practice.