Improving mammographic interpretation: double reading and computer-aided diagnosis

Abstract

This article discusses two commonly used techniques advocated to improve screening mammography performance: double reading (DR) and computer-aided detection (CAD). Analysis of these methods is incomplete because no randomized controlled trials have been performed to assess changes in survival. Although DR and CAD have shown improvement in sensitivity, specificity often has decreased. Balancing which parameter is more important involves health care policy, costs, cultural factors, legal risk, and patient preference.