A breast MRI is a test that uses a special contrast media to visualize the breast organs. It is highly sensitive for breast cancer. The test is performed during a woman’s monthly cycle. This is when the test is most accurate. It can take a few hours to complete the MRI scan.
MRI is a sensitive test that detects breast cancer.
MRI is a sensitive test that can detect cancer in the contralateral breast. It is similar to mammography's specificity and sensitivity. However, it showed a lower sensitivity in subgroups of women with a 20-40% risk of breast carcinoma.
To perform an MRI of the breasts, the patient must lie down on a platform that has been specially designed. The platform includes the MRI electronics. The patient must remain completely still in order to get the best image. Therefore, the patient should try to relax muscles and be comfortable. The technician can inform the patient if the MRI is too painful for him/her so that the patient can adjust.
It uses a contrast medium to show up body's organs
Contrast medium (also known as a breast mri) is a substance which makes organs or tissue more visible in an image. The gadolinium is an intravenous (IV) catheter line that injects the contrast material into your body. The contrast agent is not able to alter the color or structure of the bones and organs.
Contrast MRI enhances the detail of an image, which helps doctors spot abnormal tissue. MRIs may also be used for monitoring the outcome of treatment. Breast MRIs are noninvasive and do not use radiation. This type of test can be ordered by a doctor based on the patient's medical history. For women who are at high risk for breast cancer, a breast MRI can prove to be a valuable diagnostic tool. It can also provide answers to questions that other tests are not able to.
It is performed during the menstrual cycle
The woman's breast size and composition will determine the best time for breast MRI. The study was conducted on 238 women and examined the best time to have breast MR. The women's breasts were analyzed using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRIs. After the contrast injection, the enhancement of normal parenchyma level was measured in two- and six-minute intervals. The study also included dense breast-fed women.
The second or third week is the best time for breast MRI exams. This will decrease false-positive and other non-diagnostic findings. Pre-menstrual cycle women should avoid MRIs.
It is most accurate in the first half of the menstrual cycle
For the best accuracy, MRI should be performed on the breast between the first and second stages of your menstrual cycle or within four to sixteen days of the start of your period. Women can have MRI of the breast done at any time after menopause.
It can also be used in determining the extent and type of breast cancer.
A breast MRI (or breast X-ray) is a diagnostic imaging tool that detects breast cancer. An MRI can be used to determine the extent and the size of breast cancer. The MRI results are useful for planning surgical procedures. It has been proven to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce the rate of recurrence. However, the MRI procedure is not free from risks and delays.
Breast MRI can be used to detect breast cancer early. This method, when combined with mammography/clinical breast examination, is 99 percent sensitive and 94% specific. Breast MRI has the highest sensitivity among all three screening methods.