While breast CT represents a significant advancement in breast imaging, further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness compared to existing modalities. Advancements and Challenges in Breast Cancer Diagnostics In breast cancer diagnostics, early and accurate detection remains paramount. Despite technological advances, significant challenges continue to shape the practice, from patient comfort to the effectiveness of imaging in different breast densities. Guido Gebhardt spoke with Dr. Wasser, an experienced radiologist in breast imaging at the Leiden University Medical Centre LUMC Department of Radiology, about the intricacies of screening methods and new modalities that could revolutionize the early detection of breast cancer.

þ What are the challenges in breast cancer diagnosis? Early detection is a fundamental challenge in diagnosing breast cancer, highlighting the importance of regular screening. Detecting cancer at its earliest possible stage is crucial. However, many women are reluctant to undergo mammography due to discomfort from breast compression during the procedure. This discomfort discourages participation in population screening programs. Mammography, the current standard screening technique, also faces technical limitations, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. In such cases, mammography may...

display enhancing tumors like MRI, making it a compelling alternative. Tomosynthesis, or 3D mammography, is a pseudo-3D technology with a limited tomo-angulation. In patients with dense breasts, it may still miss tumors due to overlapping tissue, whereas breast CT provides true 3D imaging that minimizes these limitations. þ Are there already scientific studies showing an emerging evidence? Although breast CT shows promise, comprehensive, comparative studies are still needed to establish its efficacy. Few studies currently compare breast CT directly with mammography or MRI. To validate the clinical...

ŽƐĞĂƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚ ŝŶŵĂŵŵŽŐƌĂƉŚLJ ŽƐĞĐŽŵƉĂƌŝƐŽŶŽĨŵĂŵŵŽŐƌĂƉŚLJƚĞĐŚŶŝƋƵĞƐ Conventional mammography Digital mammography Compression thickness Compression force Total dose [mGy] Dose dependency Dose dependency on compression force, breast thickness, and parenchymal density Dose dependency solely on breast tissue characteristics Mammography and breast CT require approximately the same dose CT, citing the shorter duration and lower anxiety levels compared to MRI. Despite its sensitivity, MRI can induce claustrophobia and discomfort due to the lengthy examination time and enclosed space. With breast CT, patients...