Novel Approaches to Screening for Breast Cancer

Radiology. 2020 Nov;297(2):266-285. doi: 10.1148/radiol.2020200172. Epub 2020 Sep 8.

Abstract

Screening for breast cancer reduces breast cancer-related mortality and earlier detection facilitates less aggressive treatment. Unfortunately, current screening modalities are imperfect, suffering from limited sensitivity and high false-positive rates. Novel techniques in the field of breast imaging may soon play a role in breast cancer screening: digital breast tomosynthesis, contrast material-enhanced spectral mammography, US (automated three-dimensional breast US, transmission tomography, elastography, optoacoustic imaging), MRI (abbreviated and ultrafast, diffusion-weighted imaging), and molecular breast imaging. Artificial intelligence and radiomics have the potential to further improve screening strategies. Furthermore, nonimaging-based screening tests such as liquid biopsy and breathing tests may transform the screening landscape. © RSNA, 2020 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Breath Tests
  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnostic Imaging / trends*
  • Early Detection of Cancer / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liquid Biopsy
  • Mass Screening / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media