Errors and mistakes in breast ultrasound diagnostics.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Breast Imaging

Background:

• Sonomammography is a primary diagnostic tool for breast diseases.
• Advancements in ultrasound technology have improved diagnostic accuracy.
• Despite improvements, diagnostic errors persist due to technical and anatomical factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present common errors in breast ultrasound diagnostics.
• To discuss the sources of these diagnostic errors.
• To explore methods for minimizing errors in breast ultrasound examinations.

Main Methods:

• Review of sonomammography techniques and advancements.
• Categorization of diagnostic errors into unavoidable and reducible types.
• Analysis of artifacts and examiner-dependent errors, including BIRADS-USG classification mistakes.
• Discussion of error minimization strategies using advanced imaging options.

Main Results:

• Identified common artifacts (e.g., reverberations, comet tail) and technical setting errors.
• Highlighted examiner-dependent errors leading to incorrect BIRADS-USG classifications.
• Emphasized the impact of breast anatomy on diagnostic accuracy.
• Demonstrated the role of advanced features like harmonic imaging, Doppler, and elastography in reducing errors.

Conclusions:

• Breast ultrasound diagnostics are prone to errors from technical limitations and examiner factors.
• Advanced ultrasound techniques and meticulous examination protocols are crucial for minimizing diagnostic errors.
• Optimizing sonomammography interpretation enhances diagnostic accuracy for breast diseases.