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Schiavone A, Ventimiglia F, Zarba Meli E, Taffurelli M, Caruso F, Gentilini OD, Del Mastro L, Livi L, Castellano I, Bernardi D, Minelli M, Fortunato L. Third national surgical consensus conference of the Italian Association of Breast Surgeons (ANISC) on management after neoadjuvant chemotherapy: The difficulty in reaching a consensus. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2024; 50:108351. [PMID: 38701582 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2024.108351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has a profound impact on surgical management of breast cancer. For this reason, the Italian Association of Breast Surgeons (ANISC) promoted the third national Consensus Conference on this subject, open to multidisciplinary specialists. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Consensus Conference was held on-line in November 2022, and after an introductory session with five core-team experts, participants were asked to vote on eleven controversial issues, while results were collected in real-time with a polling system. RESULTS A total of 164 dedicated specialists from 74 Breast Centers participated. Consensus was reached for only three of the eleven issues, including: 1) the indication to assess the response with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (79 %); 2) the need to re-assess the biological factors of the residual tumor if present (96 %); 3) the possibility of omitting a formal axillary node dissection for cN1 patients if a pathologic Complete Response (pCR) was confirmed with analysis of one or more sentinel lymph nodes (82 %). The majority voted in favor of mapping both the breast and nodal lesions pre-NAC (59 %), and against the omission of sentinel lymph node biopsy in cN0 patients in the case of pathologic or clinical Complete Response (69 %). In cases of cT3/cN1+ tumors with pCR, only 8 % of participants considered appropriate the omission of Post-Mastectomy Radiation Therapy. CONCLUSION There is still a wide variability in surgical approaches after NAC in the "real world". As NAC is increasingly used, multidisciplinary teams should be attuned to conforming their procedures to the rapid advances in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfonso Schiavone
- Breast Center, San Giovanni-Addolorata Hospital, Via Dell'Amba Aradam 8, 00184, Rome, Italy; Department of Surgical Science, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Ventimiglia
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Emanuele Zarba Meli
- Breast Center, San Giovanni-Addolorata Hospital, Via Dell'Amba Aradam 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Taffurelli
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Caruso
- Breast Unit, Humanitas Istituto Clinico Catanese, Contrada Cubba 11, SP54, 95045, Misterbianco, CT, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Del Mastro
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Livi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "M. Serio", University of Florence, P.zza San Marco 4, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Isabella Castellano
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Via Giuseppe Verdi 8, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - Daniela Bernardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Minelli
- Breast Center, San Giovanni-Addolorata Hospital, Via Dell'Amba Aradam 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucio Fortunato
- Breast Center, San Giovanni-Addolorata Hospital, Via Dell'Amba Aradam 8, 00184, Rome, Italy
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Cockmartin L, Bosmans H, Marshall NW. Investigation of test methods for QC in dual-energy based contrast-enhanced digital mammography systems: I. Iodine signal testing. Phys Med Biol 2023; 68:215017. [PMID: 37820689 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ad027d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The technique of dual-energy contrast enhanced mammography (CEM) visualizes iodine uptake in cancerous breast lesions following an intravenous injection of a contrast medium. The CEM image is generated by recombining two images acquired in rapid succession: a low energy image, with a mean energy below the iodine K-edge, and a higher energy image. The first part of this study examines the use of both commercially available and custom made phantoms to investigate iodine imaging under different imaging conditions, with the focus on quality control (QC) testing. Four CEM equipped systems were included in the study, with units from Fujifilm, GE Healthcare, Hologic and Siemens-Healthineers. The CEM parameters assessed in part I were: (1) image signal as a function of iodine concentration, measured in breast tissue simulating backgrounds of varying thickness and adipose/glandular compositions; (2) normal breast texture cancellation in homogeneous and structured backgrounds; (3) visibility of iodinated structures. For all four systems, a linear response to iodine concentration was found but the degree to which this was independent of background composition differed between the systems. Good cancellation of the glandular tissue inserts was found on all the units. Visibility scores of iodinated targets were similar between the four systems. Specialized phantoms are needed to fully evaluate important CEM performance markers, such as system response to iodine concentration and the ability of the system to cancel background texture. An extensive evaluation of the iodine signal imaging performance is recommended at the Commissioning stage for a new CEM device.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Cockmartin
- UZ Gasthuisberg, Department of Radiology, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - H Bosmans
- UZ Gasthuisberg, Department of Radiology, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Imaging Research Center, Medical Physics and Quality Assessment, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - N W Marshall
- UZ Gasthuisberg, Department of Radiology, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Medical Imaging Research Center, Medical Physics and Quality Assessment, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Niroshani S, Nakamura T, Michiru N, Negishi T. Evaluation of exposure factors of dual-energy contrast-enhanced mammography to optimize radiation dose with improved image quality. Acta Radiol Open 2022; 11:20584601221117251. [PMID: 35983293 PMCID: PMC9379970 DOI: 10.1177/20584601221117251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dual-energy contrast-enhanced mammography (DECEM) is an advanced breast
imaging technique of digital mammography. Purpose To assess the total radiation dose received from complete DECEM using
different combinations of exposure parameters for low- and high-energy
images. Materials and methods A dedicated phantom with three different concentrations of iodine inserts was
used. Each iodine insert was 10 mm in diameter and concentration of
1.0 mgI/cm3, 2.0 mgI/cm3, and
4.0 mgI/cm3. The phantom was exposed at varying kVp levels.
Mean glandular dose (MGD) was estimated. Contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and
figure of merit (FOM) of the iodine inserts were used to assess the image
quality. Results The optimum CNR of the recombined images was obtained by using 28 kVp +
49 kVp tube voltage combination for 50 mm thickness, 50% fibroglandular
phantom only with a 26% dose increase compared to the highest voltages
(32 kVp + 49 kVp) that can be used for low energy (LE) and high energy (HE)
imaging. The CNR value was increased with increasing iodine concentration
(R2 > 0.99). Conclusion The use of as low as possible tube voltage for the LE imaging of standard 50%
fibroglandular–50% adipose, 50 mm thickness breast while using the highest
tube voltage for HE imaging has reduced the MGD while keeping optimum image
quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachila Niroshani
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Graduate School of Human Health Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Radiography and Radiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Werahera, Sri Lanka
| | - Tokiko Nakamura
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Graduate School of Human Health Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Radiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital, Japan
| | - Nikaidou Michiru
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Graduate School of Human Health Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toru Negishi
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Graduate School of Human Health Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan
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Radiation Dose of Contrast-Enhanced Mammography: A Two-Center Prospective Comparison. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071774. [PMID: 35406546 PMCID: PMC8997084 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The radiation dose associated with contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) has been investigated only by single-center studies. In this retrospective study, we aimed to compare the radiation dose between two centers performing CEM within two prospective studies, using the same type of equipment. The CEM mean glandular dose (MGD) was computed for low energy (LE) and high energy (HE) images and their sum was calculated for each view. MGD and related parameters (entrance dose, breast thickness, compression, and density) were compared between the two centers using the Mann−Whitney test. Finally, per-patient MGD was calculated by pooling the two datasets and determining the contribution of LE and HE images. A total of 348 CEM examinations were analyzed (228 from Center 1 and 120 from Center 2). The median total MGD per view was 2.33 mGy (interquartile range 2.19−2.51 mGy) at Center 1 and 2.46 mGy (interquartile range 2.32−2.70 mGy) at Center 2, with a 0.15 mGy median difference (p < 0.001) equal to 6.2%. LE-images contributed between 64% and 77% to the total patient dose in CEM, with the remaining 23−36% being associated with HE images. The mean radiation dose for a two-view bilateral CEM exam was 4.90 mGy, about 30% higher than for digital mammography.
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Hannsun G, Saponaro S, Sylvan P, Elmi A. Contrast-Enhanced Mammography: Technique, Indications, and Review of Current Literature. CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40134-021-00387-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
To provide an update on contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) regarding current technique and interpretation, the performance of this modality versus conventional breast imaging modalities (mammography, ultrasound, and MRI), existing clinical applications, potential challenges, and pitfalls.
Recent Findings
Multiple studies have shown that the low-energy, non-contrast-enhanced images obtained when performing CEM are non-inferior to full-field digital mammography with the added benefit of recombined post-contrast images, which have been shown to provide comparable information compared to MRI without sacrificing sensitivity and negative predictive values. While CEMs' usefulness for further diagnostic characterization of indeterminate breast findings is apparent, additional studies have provided strong evidence of potential roles in screening intermediate to high-risk populations, evaluation of disease extent, and monitoring response to therapy, particularly in patients in whom MRI is either unavailable or contraindicated. Others have shown that some patients prefer CEM over MRI given the ease of performance and patient comfort. Additionally, some health systems may find significantly reduced costs compared to MRI. Currently, CEM is hindered by the limited availability of CEM-guided tissue sampling and issues of intravenous contrast administration. However, commercially available CEM-guided biopsy systems are on the horizon, and small changes in practice workflow can be quickly adopted. As of now, MRI remains a mainstay of high-risk screening, evaluation of the extent of disease, and monitoring response to therapy, but smaller studies have suggested that CEM may be equivalent to MRI for these indications, and larger confirmatory studies are needed.
Summary
CEM is an emerging problem-solving breast imaging modality that provides complementary information to conventional imaging modalities and may potentially be used in place of MRI for specific indications and/or patient populations.
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Neeter LM, Raat H(F, Alcantara R, Robbe Q, Smidt ML, Wildberger JE, Lobbes MB. Contrast-enhanced mammography: what the radiologist needs to know. BJR Open 2021; 3:20210034. [PMID: 34877457 PMCID: PMC8611680 DOI: 10.1259/bjro.20210034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is a combination of standard mammography and iodinated contrast material administration. During the last decade, CEM has found its place in breast imaging protocols: after i.v. administration of iodinated contrast material, low-energy and high-energy images are retrieved in one acquisition using a dual-energy technique, and a recombined image is constructed enabling visualisation of areas of contrast uptake. The increased incorporation of CEM into everyday clinical practice is reflected in the installation of dedicated equipment worldwide, the (commercial) availability of systems from different vendors, the number of CEM examinations performed, and the number of scientific articles published on the subject. It follows that ever more radiologists will be confronted with this technique, and thus be required to keep up to date with the latest developments in the field. Most importantly, radiologists must have sufficient knowledge on how to interpret CEM images and be acquainted with common artefacts and pitfalls. This comprehensive review provides a practical overview of CEM technique, including CEM-guided biopsy; reading, interpretation and structured reporting of CEM images, including the accompanying learning curve, CEM artefacts and interpretation pitfalls; indications for CEM; disadvantages of CEM; and future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - H.P.J. (Frank) Raat
- Department of Medical Imaging, Laurentius Hospital, Roermond, the Netherlands
| | | | - Quirien Robbe
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Joachim E. Wildberger
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Quantitative Breast Density in Contrast-Enhanced Mammography. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153309. [PMID: 34362092 PMCID: PMC8348046 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) demonstrates a potential role in personalized screening models, in particular for women at increased risk and women with dense breasts. In this study, volumetric breast density (VBD) measured in CEM images was compared with VBD obtained from digital mammography (DM) or tomosynthesis (DBT) images. A total of 150 women who underwent CEM between March 2019 and December 2020, having at least a DM/DBT study performed before/after CEM, were included. Low-energy CEM (LE-CEM) and DM/DBT images were processed with automatic software to obtain the VBD. VBDs from the paired datasets were compared by Wilcoxon tests. A multivariate regression model was applied to analyze the relationship between VBD differences and multiple independent variables certainly or potentially affecting VBD. Median VBD was comparable for LE-CEM and DM/DBT (12.73% vs. 12.39%), not evidencing any statistically significant difference (p = 0.5855). VBD differences between LE-CEM and DM were associated with significant differences of glandular volume, breast thickness, compression force and pressure, contact area, and nipple-to-posterior-edge distance, i.e., variables reflecting differences in breast positioning (coefficient of determination 0.6023; multiple correlation coefficient 0.7761). Volumetric breast density was obtained from low-energy contrast-enhanced spectral mammography and was not significantly different from volumetric breast density measured from standard mammograms.
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Watanabe M. [8. Contrast-enhanced Mammography-History, Current Status in the World and Future Directions in Japan]. Nihon Hoshasen Gijutsu Gakkai Zasshi 2021; 77:373-382. [PMID: 33883372 DOI: 10.6009/jjrt.2021_jsrt_77.4.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Zanardo M, Cozzi A, Trimboli RM, Labaj O, Monti CB, Schiaffino S, Carbonaro LA, Sardanelli F. Technique, protocols and adverse reactions for contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM): a systematic review. Insights Imaging 2019; 10:76. [PMID: 31376021 PMCID: PMC6677840 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-019-0756-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed technical parameters, acquisition protocols and adverse reactions (ARs) for contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM). A systematic search in databases, including MEDLINE/EMBASE, was performed to extract publication year, country of origin, study design; patients; mammography unit/vendor, radiation dose, low-/high-energy tube voltage; contrast molecule, concentration and dose; injection modality, ARs and acquisition delay; order of views; examination time. Of 120 retrieved articles, 84 were included from 22 countries (September 2003-January 2019), totalling 14012 patients. Design was prospective in 44/84 studies (52%); in 70/84 articles (83%), a General Electric unit with factory-set kVp was used. Per-view average glandular dose, reported in 12/84 studies (14%), ranged 0.43-2.65 mGy. Contrast type/concentration was reported in 79/84 studies (94%), with Iohexol 350 mgI/mL mostly used (25/79, 32%), dose and flow rate in 72/84 (86%), with 1.5 mL/kg dose at 3 mL/s in 62/72 studies (86%). Injection was described in 69/84 articles (82%), automated in 59/69 (85%), manual in 10/69 (15%) and flush in 35/84 (42%), with 10-30 mL dose in 19/35 (54%). An examination time < 10 min was reported in 65/84 studies (77%), 120 s acquisition delay in 65/84 (77%) and order of views in 42/84 (50%) studies, beginning with the craniocaudal view of the non-suspected breast in 7/42 (17%). Thirty ARs were reported by 14/84 (17%) studies (26 mild, 3 moderate, 1 severe non-fatal) with a pooled rate of 0.82% (fixed-effect model). Only half of CESM studies were prospective; factory-set kVp, contrast 1.5 mL/kg at 3 mL/s and 120 s acquisition delay were mostly used; only 1 severe AR was reported. CESM protocol standardisation is advisable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moreno Zanardo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Cozzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Rubina Manuela Trimboli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Olgerta Labaj
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Radiology, University of Ferrara, Via Ludovico Ariosto 35, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Caterina Beatrice Monti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Schiaffino
- Unit of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, 20097, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Sardanelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy.,Unit of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, 20097, San Donato Milanese, Italy
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Hwang YS, Cheung YC, Lin YY, Hsu HL, Tsai HY. Susceptibility of iodine concentration map of dual-energy contrast-enhanced digital mammography for quantitative and tumor enhancement assessment. Acta Radiol 2018; 59:893-901. [PMID: 29117707 DOI: 10.1177/0284185117740760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Dual-energy (DE) contrast-enhanced digital mammography (DE-CEDM) provides additional information on tumor angiogenesis. Purpose To investigate the susceptibility of reconstructing color-coded iodine concentration maps on the basis of quantitative calibrations of the iodine concentration and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in DE-CEDM applications. Material and Methods A custom-made phantom filled with iodine concentrations in the range of 0.1-10 mg/cm2 was used in calibrations. All DE images were acquired using the GE Senographe Essential system. From DE subtraction images, the image contrast and CNR were obtained, and the quantitative relationship between these two metrics and the iodine concentration at each phantom thickness was investigated. The quantitative CNR calibration curves were applied to reconstruct color-coded iodine maps on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Results Both the mean contrast and mean CNR increased linearly with the iodine concentration. The iodine concentration estimated from the iodine map reconstructed from quantitative CNR calibrations was highly consistent with the desired iodine concentration (R2 = 0.989), and smaller relative errors (in the range of 3.0-19.5%) were observed with iodine concentrations not less than 1 mg/cm2. Conclusion An iodine concentration map could be reconstructed based on the linear relationship between the CNR and iodine concentration. From the color-coded iodine concentration map, the contrast medium enhancement phenomenon could be further estimated quantitatively, and tumor enhancement patterns could be easily observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Shuan Hwang
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Chung Cheung
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ying Lin
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Lan Hsu
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Yu Tsai
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Institute of Nuclear Engineering and Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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Makeev A, Glick SJ. Low-Dose Contrast-Enhanced Breast CT Using Spectral Shaping Filters: An Experimental Study. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2017; 36:2417-2423. [PMID: 28783629 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2017.2735302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Iodinated contrast-enhanced X-ray imaging of the breast has been studied with various modalities, including full-field digital mammography (FFDM), digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), and dedicated breast CT. Contrast imaging with breast CT has a number of advantages over FFDM and DBT, including the lack of breast compression, and generation of fully isotropic 3-D reconstructions. Nonetheless, for breast CT to be considered as a viable tool for routine clinical use, it would be desirable to reduce radiation dose. One approach for dose reduction in breast CT is spectral shaping using X-ray filters. In this paper, two high atomic number filter materials are studied, namely, gadolinium (Gd) and erbium (Er), and compared with Al and Cu filters currently used in breast CT systems. Task-based performance is assessed by imaging a cylindrical poly(methyl methacrylate) phantom with iodine inserts on a benchtop breast CT system that emulates clinical breast CT. To evaluate detectability, a channelized hoteling observer (CHO) is used with sums of Laguerre-Gauss channels. It was observed that spectral shaping using Er and Gd filters substantially increased the dose efficiency (defined as signal-to-noise ratio of the CHO divided by mean glandular dose) as compared with kilovolt peak and filter settings used in commercial and prototype breast CT systems. These experimental phantom study results are encouraging for reducing dose of breast CT, however, further evaluation involving patients is needed.
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Pani S, Saifuddin SC, Ferreira FIM, Henthorn N, Seller P, Sellin PJ, Stratmann P, Veale MC, Wilson MD, Cernik RJ. High Energy Resolution Hyperspectral X-Ray Imaging for Low-Dose Contrast-Enhanced Digital Mammography. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2017; 36:1784-1795. [PMID: 28541197 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2017.2706065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) is an alternative to conventional X-ray mammography for imaging dense breasts. However, conventional approaches to CEDM require a double exposure of the patient, implying higher dose, and risk of incorrect image registration due to motion artifacts. A novel approach is presented, based on hyperspectral imaging, where a detector combining positional and high-resolution spectral information (in this case based on Cadmium Telluride) is used. This allows simultaneous acquisition of the two images required for CEDM. The approach was tested on a custom breast-equivalent phantom containing iodinated contrast agent (Niopam 150®). Two algorithms were used to obtain images of the contrast agent distribution: K-edge subtraction (KES), providing images of the distribution of the contrast agent with the background structures removed, and a dual-energy (DE) algorithm, providing an iodine-equivalent image and a water-equivalent image. The high energy resolution of the detector allowed the selection of two close-by energies, maximising the signal in KES images, and enhancing the visibility of details with the low surface concentration of contrast agent. DE performed consistently better than KES in terms of contrast-to-noise ratio of the details; moreover, it allowed a correct reconstruction of the surface concentration of the contrast agent in the iodine image. Comparison with CEDM with a conventional detector proved the superior performance of hyperspectral CEDM in terms of the image quality/dose tradeoff.
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Meng B, Cong W, Xi Y, De Man B, Yang J, Wang G. Model and reconstruction of a K-edge contrast agent distribution with an X-ray photon-counting detector. OPTICS EXPRESS 2017; 25:9378-9392. [PMID: 28437900 PMCID: PMC5462072 DOI: 10.1364/oe.25.009378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) helps enhance the visibility for tumor imaging. When a high-Z contrast agent interacts with X-rays across its K-edge, X-ray photoelectric absorption would experience a sudden increment, resulting in a significant difference of the X-ray transmission intensity between the left and right energy windows of the K-edge. Using photon-counting detectors, the X-ray intensity data in the left and right windows of the K-edge can be measured simultaneously. The differential information of the two kinds of intensity data reflects the contrast-agent concentration distribution. K-edge differences between various matters allow opportunities for the identification of contrast agents in biomedical applications. In this paper, a general radon transform is established to link the contrast-agent concentration to X-ray intensity measurement data. An iterative algorithm is proposed to reconstruct a contrast-agent distribution and tissue attenuation background simultaneously. Comprehensive numerical simulations are performed to demonstrate the merits of the proposed method over the existing K-edge imaging methods. Our results show that the proposed method accurately quantifies a distribution of a contrast agent, optimizing the contrast-to-noise ratio at a high dose efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Meng
- Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081,
China
- Biomedical Imaging Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180,
USA
| | - Wenxiang Cong
- Biomedical Imaging Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180,
USA
| | - Yan Xi
- Biomedical Imaging Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180,
USA
| | | | - Jian Yang
- Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081,
China
| | - Ge Wang
- Biomedical Imaging Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180,
USA
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Glick SJ, Makeev A. Investigation of x-ray spectra for iodinated contrast-enhanced dedicated breast CT. J Med Imaging (Bellingham) 2017; 4:013504. [PMID: 28149923 DOI: 10.1117/1.jmi.4.1.013504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Screening for breast cancer with mammography has been very successful, resulting in part to a reduction of breast cancer mortality by approximately 39% since 1990. However, mammography still has limitations in performance, especially for women with dense breast tissue. Iodinated contrast-enhanced, dedicated breast CT (BCT) has been proposed to improve lesion analysis and the accuracy of diagnostic workup for patients suspected of having breast cancer. A mathematical analysis to explore the use of various x-ray filters for iodinated contrast-enhanced BCT is presented. To assess task-based performance, the ideal linear observer signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is used as a figure-of-merit under the assumptions of a linear, shift-invariant imaging system. To estimate signal and noise propagation through the BCT detector, a parallel-cascade model was used. The lesion model was embedded into a structured background and included a realistic level of iodine uptake. SNR was computed for 84,000 different exposure settings by varying the kV setting, x-ray filter materials and thickness, breast size, and composition and radiation dose. It is shown that some x-ray filter material/thickness combinations can provide up to 75% improvement in the linear ideal observer SNR over a conventionally used x-ray filter for BCT. This improvement in SNR can be traded off for substantial reductions in mean glandular dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Glick
- US Food and Drug Administration , Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | - Andrey Makeev
- US Food and Drug Administration , Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
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Pirimoglu B, Sade R, Ogul H, Kantarci M, Eren S, Levent A. How Can New Imaging Modalities Help in the Practice of Radiology? Eurasian J Med 2017; 48:213-221. [PMID: 28149149 DOI: 10.5152/eajm.2016.0260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this article was to provide an up-to-date review on the spectrum of new imaging applications in the practice of radiology. New imaging techniques have been developed with the objective of obtaining structural and functional analyses of different body systems. Recently, new imaging modalities have aroused the interest of many researchers who are studying the applicability of these modalities in the evaluation of different organs and diseases. In this review article, we present the efficiency and utilization of current imaging modalities in daily radiological practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhan Pirimoglu
- Department of Radiology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Recep Sade
- Department of Radiology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Hayri Ogul
- Department of Radiology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Mecit Kantarci
- Department of Radiology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Suat Eren
- Department of Radiology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Akın Levent
- Department of Radiology, Ataturk University School of Medicine, Erzurum, Turkey
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Kariyappa KD, Gnanaprakasam F, Anand S, Krishnaswami M, Ramachandran M. Contrast enhanced dual energy spectral mammogram, an emerging addendum in breast imaging. Br J Radiol 2016; 89:20150609. [PMID: 27610475 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20150609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the role of contrast-enhanced dual-energy spectral mammogram (CEDM) as a problem-solving tool in equivocal cases. METHODS 44 consenting females with equivocal findings on full-field digital mammogram underwent CEDM. All the images were interpreted by two radiologists independently. Confidence of presence was plotted on a three-point Likert scale and probability of cancer was assigned on Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System scoring. Histopathology was taken as the gold standard. Statistical analyses of all variables were performed. RESULTS 44 breast lesions were included in the study, among which 77.3% lesions were malignant or precancerous and 22.7% lesions were benign or inconclusive. 20% of lesions were identified only on CEDM. True extent of the lesion was made out in 15.9% of cases, multifocality was established in 9.1% of cases and ductal extension was demonstrated in 6.8% of cases. Statistical significance for CEDM was p-value <0.05. Interobserver kappa value was 0.837. CONCLUSION CEDM has a useful role in identifying occult lesions in dense breasts and in triaging lesions. In a mammographically visible lesion, CEDM characterizes the lesion, affirms the finding and better demonstrates response to treatment. Hence, we conclude that CEDM is a useful complementary tool to standard mammogram. Advances in knowledge: CEDM can detect and demonstrate lesions even in dense breasts with the advantage of feasibility of stereotactic biopsy in the same setting. Hence, it has the potential to be a screening modality with need for further studies and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalpana D Kariyappa
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, MIOT International Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Francis Gnanaprakasam
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, MIOT International Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Subhapradha Anand
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, MIOT International Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Murali Krishnaswami
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, MIOT International Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Madan Ramachandran
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, MIOT International Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Brandan ME, Cruz-Bastida JP, Rosado-Méndez IM, Villaseñor-Navarro Y, Pérez-Ponce H, Galván HA, Trujillo-Zamudio FE, Sánchez-Suárez P, Benítez-Bribiesca L. Clinical study of contrast-enhanced digital mammography and the evaluation of blood and lymphatic microvessel density. Br J Radiol 2016; 89:20160232. [PMID: 27376457 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20160232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To correlate image parameters in contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) with blood and lymphatic microvessel density (MVD). METHODS 18 Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS)-4 to BI-RADS-5 patients were subjected to CEDM. Craniocaudal views were acquired, two views (low and high energy) before iodine contrast medium (CM) injection and four views (high energy) 1-5 min afterwards. Processing included registration and two subtraction modalities, traditional single-energy temporal (high-energy) and "dual-energy temporal with a matrix", proposed to improve lesion conspicuity. Images were calibrated into iodine thickness, and iodine uptake, contrast, time-intensity and time-contrast kinetic curves were quantified. Image indicators were compared with MVD evaluated by anti-CD105 and anti-podoplanin (D2-40) immunohistochemistry. RESULTS 11 lesions were cancerous and 7 were benign. CEDM subtraction strongly increased conspicuity of lesions enhanced by iodine uptake. A strong correlation was observed between lymphatic vessels and blood vessels; all benign lesions had <30 blood microvessels per field, and all cancers had more than this value. MVD showed no correlation with iodine uptake, nor with contrast. The most frequent curve was early uptake followed by plateau for uptake and contrast in benign and malignant lesions. The positive-predictive value of uptake dynamics was 73% and that of contrast was 64%. CONCLUSION CEDM increased lesion visibility and showed additional features compared with conventional mammography. Lack of correlation between image parameters and MVD is probably due to tumour tissue heterogeneity, mammography projective nature and/or dependence of extracellular iodine irrigation on tissue composition. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE Quantitative analysis of CEDM images was performed. Image parameters and MVD showed no correlation. Probably, this is indication of the complex dependence of CM perfusion on tumour microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- María-Ester Brandan
- 1 Instituto de Física, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juan P Cruz-Bastida
- 1 Instituto de Física, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Iván M Rosado-Méndez
- 1 Instituto de Física, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Héctor Pérez-Ponce
- 1 Instituto de Física, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Contrast-enhanced dual energy mammography with a novel anode/filter combination and artifact reduction: a feasibility study. Eur Radiol 2015; 26:1575-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-015-4007-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Lu Y, Peng B, Lau BA, Hu YH, Scaduto DA, Zhao W, Gindi G. A scatter correction method for contrast-enhanced dual-energy digital breast tomosynthesis. Phys Med Biol 2015; 60:6323-54. [PMID: 26237154 PMCID: PMC4575809 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/60/16/6323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced dual energy digital breast tomosynthesis (CE-DE-DBT) is designed to image iodinated masses while suppressing breast anatomical background. Scatter is a problem, especially for high energy acquisition, in that it causes severe cupping artifact and iodine quantitation errors. We propose a patient specific scatter correction (SC) algorithm for CE-DE-DBT. The empirical algorithm works by interpolating scatter data outside the breast shadow into an estimate within the breast shadow. The interpolated estimate is further improved by operations that use an easily obtainable (from phantoms) table of scatter-to-primary-ratios (SPR)--a single SPR value for each breast thickness and acquisition angle. We validated our SC algorithm for two breast emulating phantoms by comparing SPR from our SC algorithm to that measured using a beam-passing pinhole array plate. The error in our SC computed SPR, averaged over acquisition angle and image location, was about 5%, with slightly worse errors for thicker phantoms. The SC projection data, reconstructed using OS-SART, showed a large degree of decupping. We also observed that SC removed the dependence of iodine quantitation on phantom thickness. We applied the SC algorithm to a CE-DE-mammographic patient image with a biopsy confirmed tumor at the breast periphery. In the image without SC, the contrast enhanced tumor was masked by the cupping artifact. With our SC, the tumor was easily visible. An interpolation-based SC was proposed by (Siewerdsen et al 2006 Med. Phys. 33 187-97) for cone-beam CT (CBCT), but our algorithm and application differ in several respects. Other relevant SC techniques include Monte-Carlo and convolution-based methods for CBCT, storage of a precomputed library of scatter maps for DBT, and patient acquisition with a beam-passing pinhole array for breast CT. Our SC algorithm can be accomplished in clinically acceptable times, requires no additional imaging hardware or extra patient dose and is easily transportable between sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihuan Lu
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
| | - Boyu Peng
- Department of Radiology, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
| | - Beverly A. Lau
- Department of Radiology, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
| | - Yue-Houng Hu
- Department of Radiology, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
| | - David A. Scaduto
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
| | - Gene Gindi
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
- Department of Radiology, Stony Brook University, NY 11794 USA
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Łuczyńska E, Heinze-Paluchowska S, Hendrick E, Dyczek S, Ryś J, Herman K, Blecharz P, Jakubowicz J. Comparison between breast MRI and contrast-enhanced spectral mammography. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21:1358-67. [PMID: 25963880 PMCID: PMC4441288 DOI: 10.12659/msm.893018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The main goal of this study was to compare contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with histopathological results and to compare the sensitivity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values for both imaging modalities. Material/Methods After ethics approval, CESM and MRI examinations were performed in 102 patients who had suspicious lesions described in conventional mammography. All visible lesions were evaluated independently by 2 experienced radiologists using BI-RADS classifications (scale 1–5). Dimensions of lesions measured with each modality were compared to postoperative histopathology results. Results There were 102 patients entered into CESM/MRI studies and 118 lesions were identified by the combination of CESM and breast MRI. Histopathology confirmed that 81 of 118 lesions were malignant and 37 were benign. Of the 81 malignant lesions, 72 were invasive cancers and 9 were in situ cancers. Sensitivity was 100% with CESM and 93% with breast MRI. Accuracy was 79% with CESM and 73% with breast MRI. ROC curve areas based on BI-RADS were 0.83 for CESM and 0.84 for breast MRI. Lesion size estimates on CESM and breast MRI were similar, both slightly larger than those from histopathology. Conclusions Our results indicate that CESM has the potential to be a valuable diagnostic method that enables accurate detection of malignant breast lesions, has high negative predictive value, and a false-positive rate similar to that of breast MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Łuczyńska
- Department of Radiology, Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
| | | | - Edward Hendrick
- Department of Radiology, University of Colorado - Denver, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sonia Dyczek
- Department of Radiology, Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
| | - Janusz Ryś
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Herman
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
| | - Paweł Blecharz
- Department of Oncological Gyneacology, Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
| | - Jerzy Jakubowicz
- Department of Radioteraphy, Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
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Daniaux M, De Zordo T, Santner W, Amort B, Koppelstätter F, Jaschke W, Dromain C, Oberaigner W, Hubalek M, Marth C. Dual-energy contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM). Arch Gynecol Obstet 2015; 292:739-47. [PMID: 25814297 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-015-3693-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Dual-energy contrast-enhanced mammography is one of the latest developments in breast care. Imaging with contrast agents in breast cancer was already known from previous magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography studies. However, high costs, limited availability-or high radiation dose-led to the development of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM). We reviewed the current literature, present our experience, discuss the advantages and drawbacks of CESM and look at the future of this innovative technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Daniaux
- Department of Radiology, Innsbruck Medical University, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria,
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Hwang YS, Lin YY, Cheung YC, Tsai HY. Three-dimensional dose distribution in contrast-enhanced digital mammography using Gafchromic XR-QA2 films: Feasibility study. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2013.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Abstract
Breast cancer continues to be the most frequently diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of death caused by cancer in women in the United States. Although each of the emerging imaging techniques discussed in this article has advantages compared with standard mammography, they are not perfect, and each has inherent limitations. To date, none have been studied by large randomized clinical trials to match the proven benefits of screening mammography; namely the reduction of mortality caused by breast cancer by nearly 30%.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vijay P Khatri
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California, Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University California, Davis Health System, 4501 X Street, Suite 3010D, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Research in digital mammography and tomosynthesis at the University of Toronto. Radiol Phys Technol 2014; 7:191-202. [PMID: 24961727 DOI: 10.1007/s12194-014-0277-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
There have been major advances in the field of breast cancer imaging since the early 1970s, both in technological improvements and in the use of the methods of medical physics and image analysis to optimize image quality. The introduction of digital mammography in 2000 provided a marked improvement in imaging of dense breasts. In addition, it became possible to produce tomographic and functional images on modified digital mammography systems. Digital imaging also greatly facilitated the extraction of quantitative information from images. My laboratory has been fortunate in being able to participate in some of these exciting developments. I will highlight some of the areas of our research interest which include modeling of the image formation process, development of high-resolution X-ray detectors for digital mammography and investigating new methods for analyzing image quality. I will also describe our more recent work on developing new applications of digital mammography including tomosynthesis, contrast-enhanced mammography, and measurement of breast density. Finally, I will point to a new area for our research--the application of the techniques of medical imaging to making pathology more quantitative to contribute to use of biomarkers for better characterizing breast cancer and directing therapeutic decisions.
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Dance DR, Young KC. Estimation of mean glandular dose for contrast enhanced digital mammography: factors for use with the UK, European and IAEA breast dosimetry protocols. Phys Med Biol 2014; 59:2127-37. [PMID: 24699200 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/59/9/2127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The UK, European and IAEA protocols for breast dosimetry in mammography use tabulations of conversion factors, which relate measurements of incident air kerma to the mean glandular dose to the breast. To supplement the existing tabulations, a Monte Carlo computer program has been used to calculate conversion factors for the high-energy spectra used for contrast enhanced digital mammography. The calculations were made for the x-ray spectra from a tungsten target (tube voltage range 40-50 kV) filtered by 0.28, 0.30 and 0.32 mm of copper, and from molybdenum and rhodium targets (tube voltage range 40-49 kV), each filtered by 0.30 mm of copper. The g-factors for all of these spectra were plotted for each breast thickness as a function of half value layer (HVL) and were found to lie on smooth curves within 0.3%. These reflect the fact that the characteristic x-rays present in the spectra from molybdenum and rhodium are heavily filtered and all the spectra are essentially Bremsstrahlung. As a consequence, the s-factor previously used in the dosimetry protocols to adjust for different target/filter combinations can be taken as unity for all of the spectra considered. Tables of g-factors and c-factors are provided for breast thicknesses in the range 20-110 mm and HVLs in the range 2.4-3.6 mm of aluminium. The tables of c-factors are given for breast glandularities in the range 0.1%-100% and for typical glandularities for women in the age bands 40-49 and 50-64 attending the UK national breast screening programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Dance
- NCCPM, Medical Physics Department, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK. Department of Physics, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
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Tsai CJ, Chen RC, Peng HL, Hsu WL, Lee JJS. Improved microcalcification visualization using dual-energy digital mammography. Acta Radiol 2013; 54:614-21. [PMID: 23528569 DOI: 10.1177/0284185113481017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dual-energy digital mammography (DEDM), involving a combination of high-energy (HE) and low-energy (LE) images, has been investigated as offering a potential improvement in microcalcification detection obscured by overlapping tissue structures. PURPOSE To explore the possibility to improve detection of microcalcifications using the DEDM technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS Three DEDM protocols were performed by adjusting the effective tube current time product (mAs) of LE image at the same (100%), one half (50%), and one-quarter (25%) of that used in HE image acquisition, named DEDM100%, DEDM50%, and DEDM25%, respectively. A single-energy digital mammography (SEDM) method was also used as a control. A total of 525 regions of interest (ROIs) were used to compare the performance of the DEDM to that of SEDM using free-response receiver-operating characteristic (FROC) and areas under the FROC curve (Az). RESULTS All DEDM protocols ranked significantly higher than the SEDM method (P < 0.001). The true-positive fraction was 0.90 for an average of 0.017-0.042 false-positive per image using the DEDM100%, 0.017-0.114 using the DEDM50%, 0.021-0.148 using the DEDM25%, and 0.134-0.422 using the SEDM. The estimated Az values were 0.915-0.940, 0.867-0.935, 0.824-0.930, and 0.567-0.673, respectively. CONCLUSION The DEDM50% protocol provided a trade-off benefit between accurate microcalcification detectability and radiation dose for any tissue density. Therefore, the DEDM50% has the potential to minimize excess radiation dose without a negative impact on image quality which could improve earlier diagnosis of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Jung Tsai
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung
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Hill ML, Mainprize JG, Carton AK, Muller S, Ebrahimi M, Jong RA, Dromain C, Yaffe MJ. Anatomical noise in contrast-enhanced digital mammography. Part I. Single-energy imaging. Med Phys 2013; 40:051910. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4801905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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Leithner R, Knogler T, Homolka P. Development and production of a prototype iodine contrast phantom for CEDEM. Phys Med Biol 2013; 58:N25-35. [PMID: 23322073 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/58/3/n25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Dromain C, Thibault F, Diekmann F, Fallenberg EM, Jong RA, Koomen M, Hendrick RE, Tardivon A, Toledano A. Dual-energy contrast-enhanced digital mammography: initial clinical results of a multireader, multicase study. Breast Cancer Res 2012; 14:R94. [PMID: 22697607 PMCID: PMC3446357 DOI: 10.1186/bcr3210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 06/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of dual-energy contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) as an adjunct to mammography (MX) ± ultrasonography (US) with the diagnostic accuracy of MX ± US alone. METHODS One hundred ten consenting women with 148 breast lesions (84 malignant, 64 benign) underwent two-view dual-energy CEDM in addition to MX and US using a specially modified digital mammography system (Senographe DS, GE Healthcare). Reference standard was histology for 138 lesions and follow-up for 12 lesions. Six radiologists from 4 institutions interpreted the images using high-resolution softcopy workstations. Confidence of presence (5-point scale), probability of cancer (7-point scale), and BI-RADS scores were evaluated for each finding. Sensitivity, specificity and ROC curve areas were estimated for each reader and overall. Visibility of findings on MX ± CEDM and MX ± US was evaluated with a Likert scale. RESULTS The average per-lesion sensitivity across all readers was significantly higher for MX ± US ± CEDM than for MX ± US (0.78 vs. 0.71 using BIRADS, p = 0.006). All readers improved their clinical performance and the average area under the ROC curve was significantly superior for MX ± US ± CEDM than for MX ± US ((0.87 vs 0.83, p = 0.045). Finding visibility was similar or better on MX ± CEDM than MX ± US in 80% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Dual-energy contrast-enhanced digital mammography as an adjunct to MX ± US improves diagnostic accuracy compared to MX ± US alone. Addition of iodinated contrast agent to MX facilitates the visualization of breast lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarisse Dromain
- Department of Radiology, Institut de cancérologie Gustave-Roussy, 39 rue Camille Desmoulin, Villejuif, 94805 France.
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Heijblom M, Klaase JM, van den Engh FM, van Leeuwen TG, Steenbergen W, Manohar S. Imaging Tumor Vascularization for Detection and Diagnosis of Breast Cancer. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2011; 10:607-23. [DOI: 10.7785/tcrt.2012.500227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Heijblom
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
- Center for Breast Care, Medisch Spectrum Twente Hospital, P.O. Box 50000, 7500 KA Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - J. M. Klaase
- Center for Breast Care, Medisch Spectrum Twente Hospital, P.O. Box 50000, 7500 KA Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - F. M. van den Engh
- Center for Breast Care, Medisch Spectrum Twente Hospital, P.O. Box 50000, 7500 KA Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - T. G. van Leeuwen
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
- Biomedical Engineering and Physics, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 2270, 1100 DE Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - W. Steenbergen
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - S. Manohar
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, the Netherlands
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Evaluation of contrast-enhanced digital mammography. Eur J Radiol 2011; 78:112-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2009.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2009] [Revised: 08/14/2009] [Accepted: 10/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Carton AK, Ullberg C, Lindman K, Acciavatti R, Francke T, Maidment ADA. Optimization of a dual-energy contrast-enhanced technique for a photon-counting digital breast tomosynthesis system: I. A theoretical model. Med Phys 2011; 37:5896-907. [PMID: 21158302 DOI: 10.1118/1.3490556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Dual-energy (DE) iodine contrast-enhanced x-ray imaging of the breast has been shown to identify cancers that would otherwise be mammographically occult. In this article, theoretical modeling was performed to obtain optimally enhanced iodine images for a photon-counting digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) system using a DE acquisition technique. METHODS In the system examined, the breast is scanned with a multislit prepatient collimator aligned with a multidetector camera. Each detector collects a projection image at a unique angle during the scan. Low-energy (LE) and high-energy (HE) projection images are acquired simultaneously in a single scan by covering alternate collimator slits with Sn and Cu filters, respectively. Sn filters ranging from 0.08 to 0.22 mm thickness and Cu filters from 0.11 to 0.27 mm thickness were investigated. A tube voltage of 49 kV was selected. Tomographic images, hereafter referred to as DBT images, were reconstructed using a shift-and-add algorithm. Iodine-enhanced DBT images were acquired by performing a weighted logarithmic subtraction of the HE and LE DBT images, The DE technique was evaluated for 20-80 mm thick breasts. Weighting factors, w(t) that optimally cancel breast tissue were computed. Signal-difference-to-noise ratios (SDNRs) between iodine-enhanced and nonenhanced breast tissue normalized to the square root of the mean glandular dose (MGD) were computed as a function of the fraction of the MGD allocated to the HE images. Peak SDNR/ mean square root of MGD and optimal dose allocations were identified. SDNR/ mean square root of MGD and dose allocations were computed for several practical feasible system configurations (i.e., determined by the number of collimator slits covered by Sn and Cu). A practicalsystem configuration an d Sn-Cu filterpair that accounts for the trade-off between SDNR, tube-output, and MGD were selected. RESULTS w(t) depends on the Sn-Cu filter combination used, as well as on the breast thickness; to optimally cancel 0% with 50% glandular breast tissue, w(t) values were found to range from 0.46 to 0.72 for all breast thicknesses and Sn-Cu filter pairs studied. The optimal w(t) values needed to cancel all possible breast tissue glandularites vary by less than 1% for 20 mm thick breasts and 18% for 80 mm breasts. The system configuration where one collimator slit covered by Sn is alternated with two collimator slits covered by Cu delivers SDNR/ mean square root of MGD nearest to the peak value. A reasonable compromise is a 0.16 mm Sn-0.23 mm Cu filter pair, resulting in SDNR values between 1.64 and 0.61 and MGD between 0.70 and 0.53 mGy for 20-80 mm thick breasts at the maximum tube current. CONCLUSIONS A DE acquisition technique for a photon-counting DBT imaging system has been developed and optimized.
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Dromain C, Thibault F, Muller S, Rimareix F, Delaloge S, Tardivon A, Balleyguier C. Dual-energy contrast-enhanced digital mammography: initial clinical results. Eur Radiol 2010; 21:565-74. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-010-1944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2010] [Revised: 07/30/2010] [Accepted: 07/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Palma BA, Rosado-Méndez I, Villaseñor Y, Brandan ME. Phantom study to evaluate contrast-medium-enhanced digital subtraction mammography with a full-field indirect-detection system. Med Phys 2010; 37:577-89. [PMID: 20229866 DOI: 10.1118/1.3276733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
This phantom study simulates contrast-medium-enhanced digital subtraction mammography (CEDM) and compares subtracted image quality and total mean glandular dose for two alternative spectral combinations available in a GE Senographe DS mammography unit. The first choice takes advantage of large iodine attenuation at low photon energies and uses traditionally available spectra (anode/filter combinations Mo/Mo at 25 kV and Rh/Rh at 40 kV, "Mo25-Rh40"). The second choice, selected from a previous analytical optimization, includes harder spectra obtained by adding external filtration to traditional beams (Rh/Rh at 34 kV and Rh/Rh+5 mm of Al at 45 kV, "Rh34-Rh45H"). Individual images of a custom-made phantom containing tubes of various diameters filled with water- or iodine-based contrast agent were acquired with both spectral combinations. The total breast entrance air kerma, considering subtraction of two images, was limited to 8.76 mGy (1 R). The results were compared to predictions obtained through an analytical formalism that assumes noise of stochastic origin. Individual images were evaluated and subtracted under five combinations of temporal and dual-energy modalities. Signal variance analysis in individual raw images showed important contributions of nonstochastic origin, associated with the software applied to raw images, the curved geometry, and strong attenuation of the phantom cylindrical iodine-filled tubes, causing experimental SNR to vary from 2.2 to 0.8 times the predictions from low to high values of SNR. Iodine contrast in the subtracted images was found to be mainly defined by the spectra, independent of exposure, and linearly dependent on the iodine mass thickness. The highest contrast was obtained with the combined dual-energy temporal subtraction with Rh34-Rh45H, its value was 7% larger than the highest value measured with Mo25-Rh40. As expected, temporal modalities (single and dual energy, any spectral choice) led to higher contrast-over-noise ratio (CNR) than nontemporal dual-energy subtraction, the latter being negligibly small with Mo25-Rh40. CNR for 4 mg iodine/cm2 imaged temporally in a dual-energy fashion with Rh34-Rh45H (iodine imaged at high energy) is about 1.7 times the optimum for Mo25-Rh40 (iodine imaged at low energy). Iodine thicknesses needed to fulfill Rose's criterion were 0.78 +/- 0.02 mg iodine/cm2 for Mo25-Rh40 and 0.54 +/- 0.17 mg iodine/cm2 for Rh34-Rh45H, both lower than the proposed biological concentration of iodine in breast tumors after contrast medium administration. Although similar dose levels were obtained with both spectral choices under dual-energy (temporal and nontemporal) subtraction, the dose obtained in single-energy temporal subtraction with the Mo25 spectrum was 1.2 mGy lower than the dose from the modality offering the highest CNR. In all results considered, the spectral choice Mo25-Rh40 was found to represent an interesting alternative to the use of high-energy hardened spectra for CEDM, particularly when performing dynamic studies of the contrast-agent uptake in breast lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Palma
- Instituto de Fisica, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 Mexico City, Mexico
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Arvanitis CD, Speller R. Quantitative contrast-enhanced mammography for contrast medium kinetics studies. Phys Med Biol 2009; 54:6041-64. [PMID: 19779213 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/54/20/002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative contrast-enhanced mammography, based on a dual-energy approach, aims to extract quantitative and temporal information of the tumour enhancement after administration of iodinated vascular contrast media. Simulations using analytical expressions and optimization of critical parameters essential for the development of quantitative contrast-enhanced mammography are presented. The procedure has been experimentally evaluated using a tissue-equivalent phantom and an amorphous silicon active matrix flat panel imager. The x-ray beams were produced by a tungsten target tube and spectrally shaped using readily available materials. Measurement of iodine projected thickness in mg cm(-2) has been performed. The effect of beam hardening does not introduce nonlinearities in the measurement of iodine projected thickness for values of thicknesses found in clinical investigations. However, scattered radiation introduces significant deviations from slope equal to unity when compared with the actual iodine projected thickness. Scatter correction before the analysis of the dual-energy images provides accurate iodine projected thickness measurements. At 10% of the exposure used in clinical mammography, signal-to-noise ratios in excess of 5 were achieved for iodine projected thicknesses less than 3 mg cm(-2) within a 4 cm thick phantom. For the extraction of temporal information, a limited number of low-dose images were used with the phantom incorporating a flow of iodinated contrast medium. The results suggest that spatial and temporal information of iodinated contrast media can be used to indirectly measure the tumour microvessel density and determine its uptake and washout from breast tumours. The proposed method can significantly improve tumour detection in dense breasts. Its application to perform in situ x-ray biopsy and assessment of the oncolytic effect of anticancer agents is foreseeable.
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Affiliation(s)
- C D Arvanitis
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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Hill ML, Mainprize JG, Mawdsley GE, Yaffe MJ. A solid iodinated phantom material for use in tomographic x-ray imaging. Med Phys 2009; 36:4409-20. [DOI: 10.1118/1.3213516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Carton AK, Gavenonis SC, Currivan JA, Conant EF, Schnall MD, Maidment ADA. Dual-energy contrast-enhanced digital breast tomosynthesis--a feasibility study. Br J Radiol 2009; 83:344-50. [PMID: 19505964 DOI: 10.1259/bjr/80279516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced digital breast tomosynthesis (CE-DBT) is a novel modality for imaging breast lesion morphology and vascularity. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of dual-energy subtraction as a technique for CE-DBT (a temporal subtraction CE-DBT technique has been described previously). As CE-DBT evolves, exploration of alternative image acquisition techniques will contribute to its optimisation. Evaluation of dual-energy CE-DBT was conducted with Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval from our institution and in compliance with federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines. A 55-year old patient with a known malignancy in the right breast underwent imaging with MRI and CE-DBT. CE-DBT was performed in the medial lateral oblique view with a DBT system, which was modified under IRB approval to allow high-energy image acquisition with a 0.25 mm Cu filter. Image acquisition occurred via both temporal and dual-energy subtraction CE-DBT. Between the pre- and post-contrast DBT image sets, a single bolus of iodinated contrast agent (1.0 ml kg(-1)) was administered, followed by a 60 ml saline flush. The contrast agent and saline were administrated manually at a rate of approximately 2 ml s(-1). Images were reconstructed using filtered-back projection and transmitted to a clinical PACS workstation. Dual-energy CE-DBT was shown to be clinically feasible. In our index case, the dual-energy technique was able to provide morphology and kinetic information about the known malignancy. This information was qualitatively concordant with that of CE-MRI. Compared with the temporal subtraction CE-DBT technique, dual-energy CE-DBT appears less susceptible to motion artefacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-K Carton
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Radiology, 1 Silverstein, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Carton AK, Acciavatti R, Kuo J, Maidment ADA. The effect of scatter and glare on image quality in contrast-enhanced breast imaging using an a-Si/CsI(TI) full-field flat panel detector. Med Phys 2009; 36:920-8. [PMID: 19378752 PMCID: PMC2736748 DOI: 10.1118/1.3077922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2008] [Revised: 12/22/2008] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the performance of an antiscatter grid and its potential benefit on image quality for a full-field digital mammography (FFDM) detector geometry at energies typical for temporal subtraction contrast-enhanced (CE) breast imaging. The signal intensities from primary, scatter, and glare were quantified in images acquired with an a-Si/CsI(T1) FFDM detector using a Rh target and a 0.27 mm Cu filter at tube voltages ranging from 35 to 49 kV. Measurements were obtained at the center of the irradiation region of 20-80 mm thick breast-equivalent phantoms. The phantoms were imaged with and without an antiscatter grid. Based on these data, the performance of the antiscatter grid was determined by calculating the primary and scatter transmission factors (T(P) and T(S)) and Bucky factors (Bf). In addition, glare-to-primary ratios (GPRs) and scatter-to-primary ratios (SPRs) were quantified. The effect of the antiscatter grid on the signal-difference-to-noise ratio (SDNR) was also assessed. It was found that T(P) increases with kV but does not depend on the phantom thickness; T(P) values between 0.81 and 0.84 were measured. T(S) increases with kV and phantom thickness; T(S) values between 0.13 and 0.21 were measured. Bf decreases with kV and increases with phantom thickness; Bf ranges from 1.4 to 2.1. GPR is nearly constant, varying from 0.10 to 0.11. SPR without an antiscatter grid (SPR-) ranges from 0.35 to 1.34. SPR- decreases by approximately 9% from 35 to 49 kV for a given phantom thickness and is 3.5 times larger for an 80 mm thick breast-equivalent phantom than for a 20 mm thick breast-equivalent phantom. SPR with an antiscatter grid (SPR+) ranges from 0.06 to 0.31. SPR+ increases by approximately 23% from 35 to 49 kV for a given phantom thickness; SPR+ is four times larger for an 80 mm breast-equivalent phantom than for a 20 mm breast-equivalent phantom. When imaging a 25 mm PMMA plate at the same mean glandular dose with and without an antiscatter grid, the SDNR is 4% greater with a grid than without. For an 75 mm PMMA plate, the SDNR is 20% greater with a grid. In conclusion, at the higher x-ray energy range used for CE-DM and CE-DBT, an antiscatter grid significantly reduces SPR and improves SDNR. These effects are most pronounced for thick breasts.
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Karellas A, Vedantham S. Breast cancer imaging: a perspective for the next decade. Med Phys 2009; 35:4878-97. [PMID: 19070222 DOI: 10.1118/1.2986144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast imaging is largely indicated for detection, diagnosis, and clinical management of breast cancer and for evaluation of the integrity of breast implants. In this work, a prospective view of techniques for breast cancer detection and diagnosis is provided based on an assessment of current trends. The potential role of emerging techniques that are under various stages of research and development is also addressed. It appears that the primary imaging tool for breast cancer screening in the next decade will be high-resolution, high-contrast, anatomical x-ray imaging with or without depth information. MRI and ultrasonography will have an increasingly important adjunctive role for imaging high-risk patients and women with dense breasts. Pilot studies with dedicated breast CT have demonstrated high-resolution three-dimensional imaging capabilities, but several technological barriers must be overcome before clinical adoption. Radionuclide based imaging techniques and x-ray imaging with intravenously injected contrast offer substantial potential as a diagnostic tools and for evaluation of suspicious lesions. Developing optical and electromagnetic imaging techniques hold significant potential for physiologic information and they are likely to be of most value when integrated with or adjunctively used with techniques that provide anatomic information. Experimental studies with breast specimens suggest that phase-sensitive x-ray imaging techniques can provide edge enhancement and contrast improvement but more research is needed to evaluate their potential role in clinical breast imaging. From the technological perspective, in addition to improvements within each modality, there is likely to be a trend towards multi-modality systems that combine anatomic with physiologic information. We are also likely to transition from a standardized screening, where all women undergo the same imaging exam (mammography), to selection of a screening modality or modalities based an individual-risk or other classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Karellas
- Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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Rosado-Méndez I, Palma BA, Brandan ME. Analytical optimization of digital subtraction mammography with contrast medium using a commercial unit. Med Phys 2008; 35:5544-57. [DOI: 10.1118/1.3003063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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Abstract
The art, science, and technology of mammography have developed steadily over the past 35 y. Mammography is a central tool for diagnosis of symptoms of breast cancer. In addition, periodic screening of asymptomatic women in certain age groups has been clearly demonstrated to contribute to reduction of mortality from breast cancer. Technical improvements have allowed the examination to be carried out at substantially lower radiation dose than was necessary to obtain a good image in the 1970's, while at the same time providing greatly improved contrast, spatial resolution, dynamic range and tissue coverage. Digital mammography overcomes many of the technical limitations inherent in screen-film mammography and has been shown to offer increased accuracy for women under 50 and those with dense breasts. The radiation risk associated with mammography cannot be ignored, however, modern analysis suggests that it is very low, especially compared to the benefits from the exam. Nevertheless, imaging should be conducted with careful attention to efficient use of the radiation. New techniques, currently under development and evaluation, promise to add further to the value of mammography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J Yaffe
- Imaging Research Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Prino F, Ceballos C, Cabal A, Sarnelli A, Gambaccini M, Ramello L. Effect of x-ray energy dispersion in digital subtraction imaging at the iodine K-edge-A Monte Carlo study. Med Phys 2007; 35:13-24. [DOI: 10.1118/1.2815360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Saito M. Dual-energy approach to contrast-enhanced mammography using the balanced filter method: Spectral optimization and preliminary phantom measurement. Med Phys 2007; 34:4236-46. [PMID: 18072488 DOI: 10.1118/1.2790841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Saito
- Department of Radiological Technology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8518, Japan.
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Diekmann F, Bick U. Tomosynthesis and contrast-enhanced digital mammography: recent advances in digital mammography. Eur Radiol 2007; 17:3086-92. [PMID: 17661053 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-007-0715-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2007] [Revised: 06/06/2007] [Accepted: 06/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Digital mammography is more and more replacing conventional mammography. Initial concerns about an inferior image quality of digital mammography have been largely overcome and recent studies even show digital mammography to be superior in women with dense breasts, while at the same time reducing radiation exposure. Nevertheless, an important limitation of digital mammography remains: namely, the fact that summation may obscure lesions in dense breast tissue. However, digital mammography offers the option of so-called advanced applications, and two of these, contrast-enhanced mammography and tomosynthesis, are promising candidates for improving the detection of breast lesions otherwise obscured by the summation of dense tissue. Two techniques of contrast-enhanced mammography are available: temporal subtraction of images acquired before and after contrast administration and the so-called dual-energy technique, which means that pairs of low/high-energy images acquired after contrast administration are subtracted. Tomosynthesis on the other hand provides three-dimensional information on the breast. The images are acquired with different angulations of the X-ray tube while the object or detector is static. Various reconstruction algorithms can then be applied to the set of typically nine to 28 source images to reconstruct 1-mm slices with a reduced risk of obscuring pathology. Combinations of both advanced applications have only been investigated in individual experimental studies; more advanced software algorithms and CAD systems are still in their infancy and have only undergone preliminary clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Diekmann
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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Diekmann F, Sommer A, Lawaczeck R, Diekmann S, Pietsch H, Speck U, Hamm B, Bick U. Contrast-to-noise ratios of different elements in digital mammography: evaluation of their potential as new contrast agents. Invest Radiol 2007; 42:319-25. [PMID: 17414528 DOI: 10.1097/01.rli.0000258682.99546.9f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) of different elements at different energies using various anode/filter combinations currently employed in digital mammography. The elements investigated included not only elements already used in conventional contrast agents such as gadolinium and iodine but also other elements to investigate their potential as mammographic contrast agents. MATERIALS AND METHODS The CNRs of 20 mmol/L bismuth (Bi), gadolinium (Gd), ytterbium (Yb), dysprosium (Dy), and iodine (I) were determined at different slice thicknesses (0.25, 0.5, and 1 cm) of the element solution with an additional 4-cm Plexiglas in relation to water (to simulate dense glandular tissue), oil, and air. The following anode/filter combinations were used: Mo/Mo in the range of 22-34 kVp, Mo/Rh in the range of 36-40 kVp, Rh/Rh in the range of 42-46 kVp, and Mo/Cu in the range of 47-49 kVp. In the range of 22-46 kVp, the mAs were chosen to achieve a fairly uniform dose range (of 4.38-4.71 mGy). Doses were measured using the PTW DIADOS diagnostic dosimeter. The element solutions were examined with a GE Senographe 2000D. RESULTS Bismuth showed the best CNR for all energies investigated and in relation to both water and oil. In the energy range below 46 kVp, bismuth (CNR at 30 kVp/50 mAs and 1/0.5/0.25 cm slice thickness: 9.9/6.1/3.4) was followed by Yb (5.9/3.5/2.0), Dy (5.3/3.2/1.9), Gd (4.2/2.5/1.6), and iodine (2.4/1.8/1.5). Bismuth had the best CNR relative to both water (values given above) and oil (Bi: 20.7/11.2/5; Yb: 16.9/8.6/3.6; Dy: 16.6/8.4/3.5; Gd: 15.21/7.5/3.2; I: 13.8/6.3/3.2). The CNR of Bi was also superior to that of the other elements investigated at high energy in combination with copper filters (eg, CNR at 49 kVp Mo/Cu at slice thicknesses of 1/0.5/0.25 cm, relative to water: 9.6/6.0/4.0) but now followed by iodine (7.9/5.3/3.5), Yb (5.8/4.0/2.9), Dy (5.4/3.7/2.8), and Gd (4.7/3.2/2.7). Iodine was the only element of those investigated whose contrast-to-noise ratio was improved with the use of a copper filter at high energies based on its K-edge (increase in CNR from 2.9 to 7.9 from 40 to 49 kVp at 1-cm slice thickness). Nevertheless, the improved CNR of iodine was below that of Bi at low energies and for Mo/Mo or Mo/Rh filters. The contrast of water/fat tended to decrease slightly at higher energies (CNR of water/air at 42 kVp: 33.9, at 48 kVp: 25.6; CNR of oil/air at 42 kVp: 23.8, at 48 kVp: 21.9). CONCLUSION Copper filters and higher energies are useful for visualizing iodine-based contrast agents in contrast-enhanced mammography because they markedly improve the CNR relative to water. This technique further benefits from the fact that the CNR of water and fat relative to air markedly decreases at higher energies and with the use of copper filters. Bismuth was found to have a much better CNR than iodine for all energies investigated including the low energy ranges typically used in mammography. These results suggest that bismuth is a potential candidate for a specific mammographic contrast agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Diekmann
- Department of Radiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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