[Impact of SARS-CoV-2 immunization on a breast screening programme.]

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) immunization commonly causes temporary axillary lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes).
• Enlarged lymph nodes can mimic breast cancer findings on mammograms, potentially leading to unnecessary recalls in asymptomatic women aged 50-69 undergoing screening.
• This study addresses concerns about the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on breast cancer screening programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on breast screening recall rates and false positive results.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of routine mammography following COVID-19 immunization.
• To analyze international protocols for breast screening post-vaccination.

Main Methods:

• Observational, retrospective study design.
• Analysis of screening mammograms from a single Breast Cancer Screening Unit in Madrid.
• Review of axillary lymph nodes and recall rates in previously vaccinated women.

Main Results:

• 423 screening mammograms were analyzed in May 2021.
• No women who received SARS-CoV-2 vaccination were recalled for additional studies due to enlarged axillary lymph nodes.
• The established protocol showed no increase in recall rates or false positives.

Conclusions:

• Routine breast screening mammograms after SARS-CoV-2 immunization, following the Spanish Society of Breast Image protocol, do not increase recall rates or false positives.
• COVID-19 vaccination does not negatively impact the effectiveness of breast cancer screening programs.
• The findings support the continuation of routine breast cancer screening post-vaccination.