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[Ultrasonography important as a supplement to mammography]
G J den Heeten1, W J van Rooij, J A Roukema
1Afd. Radiologie, St. Elisabeth Ziekenhuis, Tilburg.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|November 13, 1993
Summary
Ultrasonography significantly improves breast cancer detection rates when mammograms are unclear. This diagnostic imaging technique enhances sensitivity by at least 15%, proving crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Diagnostic imaging of the breast is crucial for early cancer detection.
- Mammography is a standard screening tool, but its effectiveness can be limited in certain patient groups.
- The role of supplementary ultrasonography requires further evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively evaluate the impact of ultrasonography on diagnostic imaging of the breast over three years.
- To assess the added value of ultrasonography in detecting breast malignancy.
- To determine the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of combined mammography and ultrasonography.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 5245 mammographic investigations.
- Inclusion of 1841 supplementary ultrasonograms.
- Histological diagnosis for 131 female patients who underwent both mammography and ultrasonography.
Main Results:
- Combined sensitivity for malignancy detection was 97%, with 98% specificity.
- Ultrasonography visualized suspicious lesions in 94% of malignancy cases.
- Ultrasonography increased sensitivity by at least 15% and provided objective benefit in 40% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonography is indispensable for diagnosing breast lesions, especially when mammograms are difficult to interpret.
- It is particularly valuable in young patients, those with dense glandular tissue, or conditions like fibrocystic disease.
- The technique aids not only in diagnosis but also in the further management of breast cancer patients.