A breast MRI, which uses a special contrast agent to view the breast organs, is a sensitive test for cancer. This test is most commonly performed during a woman’s menstrual cycle. The test is most accurate during this period. The MRI scan can take up to two hours.
MRI is a sensitivity testing for breast cancer detection
MRI can detect breast cancer in contralateral breasts and is highly sensitive. It is comparable to mammography in terms of sensitivity and specificity. However, it showed a lower sensitivity in subgroups of women with a 20-40% risk of breast carcinoma.
For the breast MRI to take place, the patient must be able to lie on a specially made platform. This platform features openings for breasts and MRI electronics. In order to receive the best possible image, the patient must be completely still. Therefore, the patient should try to relax muscles and be comfortable. If the MRI is too uncomfortable for the patient, the technician can always tell him or her so that the patient can adjust.
It uses a contrast medium to show up body's organs
A contrast medium is a substance used to make the breast mri visible. It makes organs, tissues and other body parts more apparent in the image. The gadolinium is an intravenous (IV) catheter line that injects the contrast material into your body. The contrast agent does no harm to the color of the bones or organs.
Contrast MRI allows doctors to see abnormal tissue and enhances the detail of an MRI image. MRIs may also be used for monitoring the outcome of treatment. A breast MRI scan is noninvasive, and does not involve radiation. A doctor can order this type test based upon a patient’s medical history and symptoms. A breast MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help women at high risk of getting breast cancer. It can answer questions other tests might not be able.
It's performed during menstrual cycles
The best time to perform breast MRI depends upon the woman's cycle and breast structure. The study measured the timing of breast MR exams in 238 females. The women's breasts were analyzed using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRIs. Two to six minutes following the injection of contrast, the level of enhancement in the normal parenchyma of these women were evaluated. The study also included dense breast-fed women.
The best time to have breast MRIs done is in the second or third week after the menstrual cycle. This will minimize false-positive findings and non-diagnostic ones. Women with pre-menstrual cycles should avoid MRIs performed during this period.
It's most accurate in the first part of the menstrual cycles
For the best accuracy, MRI of breasts should be done within the first to middle stages of the menstrual cycle. This is between four and 16 days after the period begins. However, women can undergo MRI at any time after menopause or after the diagnosis of breast cancer.
It can be used to determine extent of breast cancer
A breast MRI (or breast X-ray) is a diagnostic imaging tool that detects breast cancer. An MRI can help determine the size and extent of the cancer. The MRI results can help plan surgery. It has been proven to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce the rate of recurrence. The MRI procedure can have delays and risks.
Breast MRI is a method that detects early breast cancer. This method is 99% sensitive and 94% specific when used in combination with mammography and clinical breast examination. Breast MRI has the highest sensitivity among all three screening methods.