How to implement a radiologist led whole-body MRI screening program

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Diagnostic Medicine

Background:

• Screening whole-body MRI (WB-MRI) adoption is increasing, driven by consumer demand and private platforms.
• Its utility is established in high-risk groups, but use in asymptomatic individuals is debated due to concerns like false positives and lack of survival data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on screening WB-MRI.
• To outline program development and implementation within an academic radiology practice.
• To discuss downstream implications, cost-effectiveness, and the role of radiologists in guiding WB-MRI expansion.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current evidence on screening WB-MRI.
• Description of an academic radiology practice's WB-MRI program development and implementation.
• Discussion of ethical considerations, cost-effectiveness, and future directions.

Main Results:

• WB-MRI is gaining traction for early disease detection, particularly from direct-to-consumer marketing.
• Controversies persist regarding its use in asymptomatic individuals, citing low yield and potential overdiagnosis.
• Radiologists' proactive engagement is crucial for evidence-based and patient-centered implementation.

Conclusions:

• The popularity of WB-MRI is rising, necessitating careful consideration by radiologists.
• Radiologists must ensure scientific rigor, ethical oversight, and multidisciplinary collaboration in WB-MRI expansion.
• Defining best practices for screening WB-MRI is essential as its use broadens beyond traditional indications.