Unexpected Finding on Mammography and MRI due to Accumulation of Iron Oxide Particles Used for Sentinel Lymph Node

Gözde Arslan1, Cem Yılmaz2, Levent Çelik3

  • 1Department of Radiology, Maltepe University, İstanbul, Turkey.

Insights

Iron oxide particles used in breast cancer surgery can cause imaging artifacts on mammography and MRI. This case highlights the importance of recognizing these artifacts to avoid misdiagnosis of new tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Oncology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Sentinel lymph node biopsy is crucial in breast cancer staging.
  • Iron oxide particles aid in sentinel lymph node detection during surgery.
  • Accurate interpretation of follow-up imaging is vital for patient management.

Observation:

  • A patient treated for breast cancer developed a new density on mammography post-surgery.
  • This density was initially suspected to be a recurrent tumor.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed the density was an artifact.

Findings:

  • The observed imaging artifact was caused by the accumulation of iron oxide particles used during sentinel lymph node detection.
  • Mammography and MRI can both be affected by these iron oxide-based contrast agents.
  • Distinguishing artifacts from actual pathology is critical for correct diagnosis.

Implications:

  • Awareness of iron oxide particle imaging artifacts is essential for radiologists and surgeons.
  • Misinterpretation can lead to unnecessary anxiety and further invasive procedures.
  • Understanding these artifacts improves diagnostic accuracy in breast cancer follow-up.

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