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Unilateral increase in mammographic density with hormone replacement therapy
Clinical Radiology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can cause localized increases in mammographic density, potentially mimicking cancer on screening mammograms. This necessitates careful evaluation to distinguish HRT effects from malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly used for menopausal symptom management.
- Screening mammography is crucial for early breast cancer detection.
Observation:
- Two cases presented with unilateral, localized increases in mammographic density.
- These changes occurred shortly after initiating HRT and following a normal baseline mammogram.
Findings:
- The observed mammographic density increase was attributed to HRT.
- This finding required further assessment to rule out breast cancer.
Implications:
- HRT use can alter mammographic density, potentially leading to false positives.
- Radiologists and clinicians must consider HRT status when interpreting mammograms.