Imaging of the breast

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Numerous breast imaging and evaluation techniques exist.
• Thermography currently lacks established clinical indications.
• Emerging modalities show potential as adjuncts to mammography.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of various breast imaging techniques.
• To establish guidelines for the clinical testing of new modalities.
• To advocate for the continued use of mammography in screening.

Main Methods:

• Review of current evidence on breast imaging modalities.
• Assessment of diagnostic capabilities, including detection of occult disease.
• Definition of a framework for evaluating new breast imaging technologies.

Main Results:

• Mammography is the "gold standard" for breast imaging and the only indicated screening technique.
• Computed tomography, ultrasonography, light scanning, and NMR may serve as adjuncts but require further research.
• Thermography has no established clinical indications.

Conclusions:

• Mammography's superiority in detecting clinically occult disease makes it essential for breast cancer screening.
• The clinical use of unproven "noninvasive" breast imaging techniques should be avoided.
• A rigorous evaluation process is necessary to validate new breast imaging modalities.