Changes in Wolfe mammographic patterns with aging

Abstract

Mammograms of 212 women were examined at a mean interval of 15 (range 11-17) years, to determine whether there was any change in Wolfe mammographic pattern with age. The mean age of the patients at repeat mammography was 52 (range 32-75) years. The DY pattern tended to change to P2 or P1 with age. Those in whom the DY pattern remained tended to be younger (mean age 47 years) than those who changed to P2 (57 years), or P1 (55 years). Women whose pattern changed from DY to N1 had a mean age of 42 years. These findings support the hypothesis that the perilobular connective-tissue elements are the structures responsible for the dense appearance of the DY breast, as these elements would be most active between 15 and 45 years (peak reproductive period) and tend to regress later.