Breast US: State of the Art

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging
• Medical Technology
• Oncology

Background:

• Breast ultrasound (US) is a vital imaging tool, often primary for palpable masses and lymph nodes.
• It complements mammography and MRI, especially for dense breasts when used for screening.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into US for improved accuracy and workflow.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a state-of-the-art review of current and emerging breast US technology and clinical applications.
• To highlight the role of US as an adjuvant technique to mammography, MRI, and clinical breast examination.
• To present novel techniques including AI, US tomography, optoacoustic imaging, and contrast-enhanced US.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature on breast ultrasound.
• Synthesis of information on established and novel US technologies and their clinical utility.
• Discussion of AI integration and background echotexture analysis as biomarkers.

Main Results:

• Breast US is essential for evaluating palpable masses, lymph nodes, and guiding biopsies.
• Screening whole-breast US serves as a valuable adjunct to mammography, particularly for women with dense breasts.
• AI and background echotexture analysis represent emerging advancements in breast US.

Conclusions:

• Radiologists must stay abreast of evolving US technology and apply meticulous techniques for optimal image quality and diagnosis.
• Breast US plays a significant role in screening, staging, treatment monitoring, and interventions.
• Advanced techniques like AI, US tomography, and contrast-enhanced US are expanding the capabilities of breast US.