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. During this time, the test is most accurate. The MRI scan may take a couple hours.
MRI is a sensitive test to detect breast cancer
MRI is a sensitive test that can detect cancer in the contralateral breast. It is comparable to mammography in terms of sensitivity and specificity. However, its sensitivity was lower in the subgroup of women with a 20 to 40 percent risk of breast cancer.
For the breast MRI to take place, the patient must be able to lie on a specially made platform. The platform is designed to allow breasts to be positioned without compression. It also contains the MRI electronics. The patient must remain completely still in order to get the best image. The patient should relax and feel 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 is used in breast mri. This makes the organs and tissue of the body visible in the image. The contrast material is known as a gadolinium Ion and is injected through an IV catheter line. The contrast agent does not affect the color of the organs or bones.
Contrast MRI increases the resolution of an image and helps doctors identify abnormal tissue. MRIs are also useful in monitoring the progress of treatment for a particular type of cancer. A breast MRI scan is noninvasive, and does not involve radiation. Based on the patient's symptoms and medical history, a doctor may order this test. A breast MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help women at high risk of getting breast cancer. It can answer questions that may not be answered by other tests.
It is done during menstruation
The best time to perform breast MRI depends upon the woman's cycle and breast structure. The study examined the optimal timing of breast MR examinations in 238 women. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRIs were used to analyze the breasts of the women. Two to six minutes following the injection of contrast, the level of enhancement in the normal parenchyma of these women were evaluated. This study also included breast-dense women.
The best time to have breast MRIs done is in the second or third week after the menstrual cycle. This will reduce false-positive and nondiagnostic findings. Women with pre-menstrual cycles should avoid MRIs performed during this period.
It is most accurate at the beginning of the menstrual period
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. Women can have MRI done after menopause, or after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
It can be used as a way to measure the extent or breast cancer.
Breast MRI is a diagnostic imaging device that can detect breast cancer. An MRI can be used to determine the extent and the size of breast cancer. The results of the MRI can be helpful in the planning of surgery. It can improve diagnosis accuracy and decrease recurrence rates. 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. When combined with mammography, clinical breast exam and mammography, this method is 99% specific and 94% sensitive. Breast MRI has the highest sensitivity among all three screening methods.