Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features in Different Types of Invasive Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy affecting women worldwide, and early diagnosis of breast cancer is the key to its successful and effective treatment. Traditional imaging techniques such as mammography and ultrasound are used to detect and configure breast abnormalities; unfortunately, these modalities have low sensitivity and specificity, particularly in young patients with dense breast tissue, breast implants, or post-surgical scar/architecture distortions. Therefore, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been superior in the characterization and detection of breast cancer, especially that with invasive features. This review article explores the importance of breast MRI in the early detection of invasive breast cancer versus traditional tools, including mammography and ultrasound, while also analyzing the use of MRI as a screening tool for high-risk women. We will also discuss the different MRI features for invasive ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma and the role of breast MRI in the detection of ductal carcinoma in situ with a focus on the utilization of new techniques, including MR spectroscopy and diffusion-weighted imaging.

Keywords: breast cancer; dcis; idc; ilc; mammogram; mri breast; ultrasound.

Figure 1. Selection process and the PRISMA flow diagram

PRISMA, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Figure 2. Sagittal post-contrast T1 subtraction

There is an invasive ductal cancer in the upper outer quadrant of the right breast (green arrow) in an 80-year-old female appearing as an enhancing lesion with spiculated irregular margins.

Figure 3. Axial post-contrast T1 subtraction

There is an invasive ductal cancer in the upper outer quadrant of the right breast (green arrow) in an 80-year-old female appearing as an enhancing lesion with irregular spiculated margins.