Imaging in Breast-Related Diseases

Abstract

• Currently mammography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance are the best radiological imaging modalities for both diagnosis and local staging of breast cancer. To date, there is no evidence on the utility of other emerging diagnostic tools. • The results of imaging are very different if performed as screening procedures in asymptomatic women or as diagnostic procedure in a symptomatic patient. • Mammography is the best technique for a panoramic image; ultrasound is an essential component for localised symptoms and for guided tissue sampling. • Mammography is the technique of choice for a BC screening protocol, but MRI is the technique of choice for very young women at high risk.

Future directions. Emerging technologies in breast imaging have resulted in an explosion of areas of investigation: the newer versions of digital mammography including tomosynthesis and digital subtraction mammography, the latest individualised screening strategies that stratify patients with different tools especially for women at high risk and the wide-ranging use of imaging to monitor and adjust efficacy of neoadjuvant regimens in the course of therapy.