Calcifications on DBT and Synthetic Views: Update and Management Strategies

AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo provide an update on imaging appearance of calcifications on digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) compared to digital mammography (DM), and discuss the challenges in interpretation of DBT and synthesized views (SM).Recent FindingsThe quasi-3D feature of DBT reduces tissue overlap compared to DM improving visualization of lesions. However, early studies suggest that calcifications are less conspicuous on DBT. Two-dimensional SM created from tomosynthesis acquisition are FDA approved to replace DM and demonstrate improved conspicuity of calcifications. Reader and population-based studies suggested overall similar performance for SM+DBT when compared to DM+DBT. Reconstruction algorithms have improved calcification visualization; however, visualization of some calcifications can be challenging. On the other hand, DBT is increasingly being used for guiding biopsy of calcifications with increased success rate.SummaryKnowledge of the advantages and challenges of DBT and SM helps improve detection of suspicious calcifications while decreasing false-positive results. Improved lesion localization and shorter procedure time are major advantageous of DBT-guided biopsy of calcifications.

Source: Current Radiology Reports - May 26, 2020 Category: Radiology Source Type: research