Discover the Benefits of Contrast-Enhanced Mammography for Breast Cancer Screening

Contrast - enhanced mammography ( CEM ) could be a more efficient method for women undergoing Breast cancer screening who have been recalled , according to a study published in the Lancet Regional Health Europe on 3 July . Dr. Marc Lobbes , PhD , from Maastricht University Medical Center in the Netherlands , led the research team and found that CEM showed diagnostic accuracy similar to conventional breast imaging , with the added benefits of better resource efficiency and detecting more occult lesions.

Women who are recalled from breast cancer screening usually receive post - screening work - up with full - field digital mammography . However , additional imaging methods such as digital breast tomosynthesis ( DBT ) , MRI , and ultrasound can also be used to determine the final diagnosis . Radiologists are working to determine the best approach to reduce false - positive cases , which can lead to unnecessary anxiety and costs for women.

The Lobbes team presented findings from the RACER trial , a multicenter , randomized controlled clinical trial that compared CEM to conventional imaging as a primary breast imaging modality . The trial evaluated diagnostic workups in women recalled from breast cancer screening and included data collected between 2018 and 2021 from 526 women , with 264 in the CEM branch and 262 in the control branch . The trial showed that CEM had a higher sensitivity and detected more malignant occult lesions compared to conventional imaging.

The researchers recommended that CEM should be strongly considered as the preferred primary imaging modality for women recalled from breast cancer screening . They also noted that the risks associated with CEM use are minimal and that it is a safe and feasible method . Lobbes mentioned that a cost efficiency analysis is currently being conducted to determine if the approach with CEM is also more cost - effective.

In conclusion , the study highlights the potential benefits of using CEM in breast cancer screening for women who have been recalled . The findings suggest that CEM could improve diagnostic accuracy and efficiency , leading to better outcomes for patients . Further research and analysis are needed to fully assess the impact and cost - effectiveness of incorporating CEM into routine breast cancer screening programs.