Contrast-enhanced digital mammography is a quick breast imaging technique which combines 3D Tomosynthesis digital mammography with an intravenous contrast agent to identify malignancies.
After the contrast is administered via a cannula, two sequential images are taken at high and low energies. These two images are digitally subtracted to produce a single image that highlights abnormal vascularity, similar to the images produced by an MRI.
Benefits of Contrast Enhanced Mammography
CEM can reduce the incidence of overdiagnosis of breast lesions and consequently reduce patient anxiety and minimise unnecessary biopsies.
CEM is not a widely available procedure and is still undergoing evaluation to check its accuracy and benefits.
Contrast-Enhanced Mammography Benefits
Includes:
Increasing the breast cancer detection rate,
Unaffected by dense breast tissue
Highlights areas of unusual blood flow patterns.
Provides better information about the extent of newly diagnosed breast cancers,
Evaluate the extent of breast cancer for treatment planning
Saves time with minimizing anxiety
Effective alternative to breast MRI in those who cannot tolerate MRI
Lower cost and shorter procedure time compared to MRI
Contrast-Enhanced Mammography has the potential to limit breast imaging to a single investigation, reducing the need for
Growing tumours need a blood supply, but the blood vessels created by the tumour are abnormal. When contrast is circulated via the blood these abnormal blood vessels leak contrast which accumulates in the tumour in sufficient concentration to allow X-ray imaging of its distribution.
Preparation for a Contrast Enhanced Mammography
CEM is a special type of mammogram that is performed after an IV injection of X-ray contrast (iodine based).
You will be required to fast for 3 hours prior to the examination but you may drink clear fluids.
A history of kidney (renal) function, diabetes, high blood pressure and reaction to previous contrast will be needed on/prior to your appointment.
If you are over 60 years old, please ensure you have completed a recent blood test for kidney function.