Role of contrast enhanced spectral mammography in assessment of focal breast asymmetry

Abstract

Contrast enhanced mammography (CESM) is one of the relatively novel imaging modalities. Many studies have suggested that CESM is superior to mammography in the identification of multiplicity, extent and size of malignant lesions especially in the dense breast parenchymaObjectives: to assess the role of CESM in characterization of focal breast asymmetry by using intravenous contrast material with full-field digital mammography.This study included 60 female patients who presented for screening and diagnostic mammogram at mammography unit in Egyptian national cancer institute. All enrolled cases had focal breast asymmetries detected on mammogram. Ultrasound examination and CESM using dual-energy acquisitions were performed for all included patients. Histopathology after ultrasound guided true cut biopsy was the standard reference for detecting lesionsCESM is valid and reliable tool in assessment of focal asymmetries. Enhancement and morphology characteristics are valuable in differentiation of benign and malignant breast lesions. Accurate diagnosis and characterization of breast lesions have an essential role in the management and improved prognosis of breast cancer.