This paper summarizes information about breast MRI to be provided to women and referring
physicians. After listing contraindications, procedure details are described, stressing
the need for correct scheduling and not moving during the examination. The structured
report including BI-RADSA (R) categories and further actions after a breast MRI examination
are discussed. Breast MRI is a very sensitive modality, significantly improving screening
in high-risk women. It also has a role in clinical diagnosis, problem solving, and
staging, impacting on patient management. However, it is not a perfect test, and occasionally
breast cancers can be missed. Therefore, clinical and other imaging findings (from
mammography/ultrasound) should also be considered. Conversely, MRI may detect lesions
not visible on other imaging modalities turning out to be benign (false positives).
These risks should be discussed with women before a breast MRI is requested/performed.
Because breast MRI drawbacks depend upon the indication for the examination, basic
information for the most important breast MRI indications is presented. Seventeen
notes and five frequently asked questions formulated for use as direct communication
to women are provided. The text was reviewed by Europa Donna-The European Breast Cancer
Coalition to ensure that it can be easily understood by women undergoing MRI. aEuro
cent Information on breast MRI concerns advantages/disadvantages and preparation to
the examination aEuro cent Claustrophobia, implantable devices, allergic predisposition,
and renal function should be checked aEuro cent Before menopause, scheduling on day
7-14 of the cycle is preferred aEuro cent During the examination, it is highly important
that the patient keeps still aEuro cent Availability of prior examinations improves
accuracy of breast MRI interpretation.
