J Korean Soc Radiol.  2021 Jan;82(1):29-48. 10.3348/jksr.2020.0215.

Diffusion-Weighted Imaging as a Stand-Alone Breast Imaging Modality

• Shin HJ
• Lee SH
• Moon WK

• KMID: 2512592
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3348/jksr.2020.0215

Abstract

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW MRI) is a fast unenhanced technique that shows promise as a stand-alone modality for cancer screening and characterization. Currently, DW MRI may have lower sensitivity than that of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI as a standalone modality for breast cancer detection but superior to that of mammography, which may provide a useful alternative for supplemental screening. Standardized acquisition and interpretation of DW MRI can improve the image quality and reduce the variability of the results. Furthermore, high-resolution DW MRI, with advanced techniques and postprocessing, will facilitate better detection and characterization of subcentimeter cancers and reduce false-negatives and false-positives. Future results from ongoing prospective multicenter clinical trials using standardized and optimized protocols will facilitate the use of DW MRI as a stand-alone modality.

Keyword

Diffusion-Weighted Imaging; Breast Cancer; Screening