[MRI-guided biopsy of the breast: new possibilities but also new problems]

Abstract

The use of MRI in the detection and management of breast cancer is increasing. Because of its relatively low specificity, many patients turn out in retrospect to have a false-positive biopsy. Conversely, due to the shortcomings of available biopsy techniques, breast cancer can also be missed and left behind in the breast. The introduction of MRI of the breast in daily practice may therefore have a great psychological impact on the group of mostly young patients who are offered this diagnostic modality because of their familial risk. In order to prevent learning curves in every clinic where MRI screening is implemented, the management of this special group should be concentrated in centres with broad experience in the treatment of patients with a genetic predisposition for breast cancer.