A breast MRI scan uses a special contrast material to view the breast organs. This is a sensitive test for breast cancer. It is usually performed during a woman's menstrual cycle. The test is most reliable during this time. The MRI scan can take up to two hours.
MRI is a sensitivity test for detecting breast cancer
MRI can detect breast cancer in contralateral breasts and is highly sensitive. Its sensitivity and specificity are comparable to those of mammography. However, its sensitivity was lower in the subgroup of women with a 20 to 40 percent risk of breast cancer.
A specially designed platform is required for MRI scanning of the breasts. This platform has openings in order to accommodate the breasts without compression and contains the MRI electronics. In order to receive the best possible image, the patient must be completely still. Patient should relax, and try to 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 in order to display the organs.
Contrast medium is a substance that makes organs and tissues in the body more visible in an image of a breast mri. The contrast material is known as a gadolinium Ion and is injected through an IV catheter line. Contrast agent doesn't affect color of organs or bones.
Contrast MRI increases the resolution of an image and helps doctors identify abnormal tissue. MRIs can also be used to monitor the response of treatment to a particular cancer. The breast MRI does not require radiation and is noninvasive. A doctor can order this type based on patient's medical history. A breast MRI can be a valuable diagnostic tool for women at high risk of developing breast cancer. It can answer questions other tests might not be able.
It's done during your menstrual cycle
Breast MRI is best done at the right time depending on the woman's breast composition and her menstrual cycle. The study was conducted on 238 women and examined the best time to have breast MR. The dynamic contrast-enhanced MRIs (MRIs with dynamic contrast enhancement) were used to examine the breasts. 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 ideal time for breast MRI examinations of breasts is the second or the third week of a menstrual period. This will help reduce false-positive or nondiagnostic results. 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 for determining the extent of breast carcinoma
Breast MRI is a diagnostic imaging device that can detect breast cancer. The MRI can determine the extent and size of the cancer. The MRI's results can be useful in planning surgery. The MRI has been shown to increase the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce recurrences and re-excisions. However, there are some risks and delays associated with MRI.
Breast MRI has been deemed one of most reliable methods for early detection of breast cancer. This method can be combined with mammography and clinical examination to detect breast cancer at 94% accuracy. Breast MRI actually has the highest sensitivity out of all three screening options.