PMID: 15377106Sep 21, 2004Paper

Emerging technologies in breast cancer detection

Radiology Management
Andrew SmithDonna M Marcello

Abstract

While screening mammography is recognized as the most effective method for early detection of breast cancer, this modality has limitations that are the driving force behind efforts to refine existing mammography technologies and develop new ones offering improved detection of breast cancer. Full-field digital mammography (FFDM) systems use digital detectors to convert x-ray photons to digital signals for display on high-resolution monitors. These systems offer capabilities not provided by conventional film-screen mammography. Contrast-enhanced mammography utilizes the basic biological principle that aggressive cancers are associated with increased vascularity. Iodinated contrast agents--the same used in computed tomography (CT) examinations--are administered through an injection in a vein usually in the arm. They distribute throughout the blood system, and x-ray imaging shows increased contrast in areas where they concentrate. Tomosynthesis acquisition involves acquiring multiple images of a stationary compressed breast at different angles during a short scan. The individual images are then reconstructed into a 3D series of thin high-resolution slices. The slices can be displayed individually or in a dynamic ciné mode. The indi...Continue Reading

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