Breast disease: the radiologist's expanding role

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The role of diagnostic radiologists in breast cancer management has evolved significantly over eight decades.
• Historically focused on diagnosis, the radiologist's involvement now extends to treatment.
• Mammography has been central to this evolution in breast imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the historical expansion of the diagnostic radiologist's role in breast cancer.
• To detail current diagnostic and treatment-related responsibilities of radiologists in breast imaging.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of breast imaging and mammography.
• Discussion of current radiologist roles in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Main Results:

• The radiologist's scope has broadened from diagnosis to include treatment interventions.
• Current diagnostic roles include screening mammography, problem-solving, ultrasound, and galactography.
• Treatment roles encompass preoperative needle localization, percutaneous biopsy, and postoperative evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Diagnostic radiologists play an increasingly comprehensive role in the multidisciplinary care of breast cancer patients.
• The evolution reflects advancements in imaging technology and interventional techniques.
• Radiologists are integral to both the detection and management of breast cancer.