Breast lesions examined by digital angiography. Work in progress

• Published in: Radiology Vol. 155; no. 1; p. 65
• Main Authors: Ackerman, L V, Watt, A C, Shetty, P, Flynn, M J, Burke, M, Kambouris, A, Fine, G, Wilderman, S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-04-1985
• Subjects: Angiography - methods; Biopsy; Breast - pathology; Breast Neoplasms - blood supply; Breast Neoplasms - diagnostic imaging; Breast Neoplasms - pathology; Female; Humans; Radiation Dosage; Subtraction Technique
• ISSN: 0033-8419
• DOI: 10.1148/radiology.155.1.3883425

Differentiation of benign from malignant lesions in screening for breast cancer is usually arrived at via surgical biopsy, an invasive and costly procedure. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of the breast is a less invasive procedure. DSA imaging patterns from 22 patients with malignant and benign lesions were compared with surgical biopsy findings. DSA examinations were performed with the breast in an immobilization device and contrast medium was injected into the superior vena cava. Images were produced with a low kilovoltage (50 kVp) to enhance contrast, and a technique yielding an average dose to the breast of less than 2 rad (0.02 Gy) was used. Preliminary clinical results demonstrate the potential of DSA for differentiation of benign and malignant lesions and justify further investigations of its use as an alternative to surgical biopsy.