Background
The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for breast screening
is increasing. Women may approach their general practitioner for
advice on its role in breast screening and diagnosis.
Objective
This article provides an evidence based update on the role of
breast MRI.
Discussion
There is good evidence to support the use of MRI for cancer
screening in younger women at high genetic risk of breast cancer.
Its use for assessing the extent of disease in the breast after breast
cancer is diagnosed (local staging) is controversial. Certainly MRI is
more sensitive than conventional imaging for detecting multifocal/
multicentric disease, however, there is evidence that some women
have more extensive surgery as a result of MRI without clear evidence
of benefit. There is no role for MRI as a substitute for mammography
or for screening women at average risk of breast cancer. It also has
no routine role as a diagnostic test in women with symptoms.
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