Diffusion tensor imaging in the normal breast: influences of fibroglandular tissue composition and background parenchymal enhancement

Clin Imaging. 2016 May-Jun;40(3):506-11. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2015.12.001. Epub 2015 Dec 8.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate effects of fibroglandular tissue (FGT) composition and background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters in normal breast tissue.

Methods: DTI analysis was performed on 35 breasts with regions of interest drawn to include only normal tissue. Breasts were dichotomized by FGT composition and by BPE; DTI parameters were compared.

Results: The λ1 principal diffusion coefficient was lower in breasts with moderate/marked BPE versus those with minimal/mild BPE (P=.039). All other parameters were unaffected.

Conclusion: λ1 is sensitive to differences in BPE within normal breast tissue that should be taken into account in DTI evaluation.

Keywords: Breast; DTI; Diffusion; MRI; Tensor.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast / anatomy & histology
  • Breast / diagnostic imaging*
  • Diffusion Tensor Imaging*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Observer Variation
  • Retrospective Studies