Recent presentations at ECR 2024 shed light on the efficacy of abbreviated breast MRI not only in high-risk women but also in evaluating “pure” ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This innovative approach offers a safe and streamlined alternative to conventional breast MRI screening exams, as discussed by presenters Dr. Tamara Suaris and Dr. Nurbanu Basdogan.
Abbreviated Breast MRI for High-Risk Screening:
Dr. Suaris, from St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, highlighted the benefits of abbreviated breast MRI for high-risk screening. Their study, conducted between 2018 and 2021, evaluated 236 shortened breast MRI exams, demonstrating comparable diagnostic accuracy to conventional protocols. The abbreviated protocol, consisting of six sequences, yielded a 100% negative predictive value and sensitivity, offering a cost-effective and efficient option for high-risk breast cancer screening.
Streamlined Workflow and Diagnostic Accuracy:
The abbreviated protocol not only ensures patient safety but also streamlines radiology department workflow, with an average reading time of just 69 seconds per exam. Despite a slightly higher recall rate compared to full protocols, the abbreviated MRI maintained high sensitivity and cancer detection rates, making it a feasible option for high-risk screening, as emphasized by Suaris and colleagues.
Detection of Pure DCIS with Abbreviated MRI:
In another presentation, Dr. Basdogan of Istanbul University presented findings on the detection of pure DCIS using a shortened MRI protocol. Their study, conducted between May 2021 and October 2023, demonstrated high sensitivity in identifying pure DCIS cases using an abbreviated protocol consisting of T1-weighted imaging without contrast, T1WI with first-minute contrast, and a one-minute subtraction image.
Conclusion:
The presentations at ECR 2024 underscore the growing significance of abbreviated breast MRI in both high-risk screening and DCIS detection. With comparable diagnostic accuracy to full protocols and shorter scan times, abbreviated MRI offers a promising avenue for improving breast cancer screening outcomes and patient care.
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