Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in women, affecting one in every eight women in the US1. Early detection of breast cancer is important for improving survival rates and treatment outcomes. Women whose breast cancer is detected at an early stage have a 93 percent or higher survival rate in the first five years2.
Various methods are used for breast cancer detection, including mammography, clinical breast exams, and breast self-exams. However, recent studies have shown promising results for using computed tomography (CT) scans as an advanced breast cancer detection method. CT scans demonstrate high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in detecting breast cancer, with some studies showing better performance than traditional mammography3.
CT scans are advanced medical imaging techniques that use X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. The technology involves a rotating X-ray tube and detectors that measure X-ray attenuation through different tissues4. These measurements are then processed using tomographic reconstruction algorithms to produce virtual “slices” of the body. The process typically takes about 10-16 seconds per breast, with the patient lying prone on a table with the breast suspended through an opening5.
The CT machine consists of a motorized table that moves the patient through a circular opening called the gantry6. Inside the gantry, an X-ray source and detector assembly rotate around the patient, typically completing a rotation in less than a second. As the X-rays pass through the body, detectors register the radiation that emerges, creating snapshots from various angles. The computer then reconstructs these snapshots into cross-sectional images or slices of the internal organs and tissues.
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CT scans offer several potential benefits for breast cancer detection.
CT scans have demonstrated accuracy in breast cancer detection compared to traditional mammography. Studies have shown that CT scans can achieve:
These figures compare favorably to traditional mammography, which showed lower rates in the same studies5. This high level of precision allows for earlier detection and more accurate diagnosis.
CT scans also provide excellent anatomical detail and visualization of soft tissue components of tumors, especially when contrasted against adipose tissues. This improved visualization allows for better detection of mass lesions, detection of microcalcifications, and identification of very small, previously undetected breast cancers7,8. CT scans excel at catching cancers in dense, premenopausal dysplastic breasts, where traditional mammography often struggles9. This is important as dense breast tissue can obscure tumors in standard mammograms.
Unlike mammography, CT scans do not require breast compression. Patients lie prone with the breast suspended, increasing comfort and which could improve compliance with breast screening10.
The time taken for a CT scan is relatively short, typically taking, as mentioned above, about 10-16 seconds per breast. This efficiency can help reduce patient anxiety and increase throughout in busy medical facilities. The detailed images provided by CT scans are invaluable for treatment planning. By offering precise information about the location and extent of tumors, CT scans help doctors determine the most effective treatment strategies11.
CT scans have not been widely adopted as a primary screening tool for breast cancer. However, there might be specific situations where CT scans may be considered for breast cancer detection or evaluation.
Right now, CT scans are not routinely used to catch breast cancers. However, some doctors might refer you for a CT scan in any of the above scenarios.
If your scan requires it, you may have to fast for four hours before your appointment time17. You can drink clear fluids and take medications as normal18. Diabetic patients can have a light snack if necessary but should avoid large meals. If contrast material is needed, you might be asked to drink water or a special liquid contrast.
You will likely be asked to change into a hospital gown for the scan. Remove any metal items, including jewelry, from the area being scanned. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.
If your CT requires contrast, an IV line may be placed in your arm or hand to inject the contrast dye19. You might be given an oral contrast to drink, which helps highlight your digestive tract. Before contrast is administered, you should inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to iodine or contrast materials.
If you have breast implants or are pregnant and breastfeeding, then you should notify your healthcare professional.
While mammography remains the primary breast cancer diagnostic tool, CT scans have emerged as a promising advanced detection method. Some studies show some advantages of CT over other imaging methods, especially in patients with dense breast tissue. It’s important to note that CT scans are not currently used as a routine screening tool for breast cancer. As research continues to advance, however, CT scans may provide an additional option in the early detection of breast cancer.
If you want to be proactive about your health, why not book an Ezra full-body MRI? Our annual scan catches potential cancer earlier, leveraging AI through the screening process to make it more efficient, affordable, and faster.
1.Gami V, Desai D, Shah S, Rana D. Clinical Utility of Ultrasonography BI-RADS in the Evaluation of Breast Cancer in Patients with Palpable Breast Masses: A Diagnostic Test Accuracy Original Article. Published online November 14, 2023:2023.11.08.23298253. doi:10.1101/2023.11.08.23298253
2. Cruz S de JV, Ribeiro AKP de L, Pinheiro M da CN, Carneiro VCCB, Neves LMT, Carneiro SR. Five-year survival rate and prognostic factors in women with breast cancer treated at a reference hospital in the Brazilian Amazon. PLoS One. 2022;17(11):e0277194. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0277194
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8. News. Breast CT scanner invented at UC Davis is closer to commercialization. news. Accessed January 6, 2025. https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/breast-ct-scanner-invented-at-uc-davis-is-closer-to-commercialization-/2024/04
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12. ACS Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines. Accessed January 6, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html
13. Family history of breast cancer and inherited genes. Accessed January 6, 2025. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/risks-causes/family-history-and-inherited-genes
14. Bydder M, Cornford E, Cox J, et al. Guidance on Screening and Symptomatic Breast Imaging, Fourth Edition. 4th ed.; 2019. Accessed January 6, 2025. https://www.rcr.ac.uk/media/0dkh5y5d/rcr-publications_guidance-on-screening-and-symptomatic-breast-imaging-fourth-edition_november-2019.pdf
15. Barter S, Britton P. Recommendations for Cross-Sectional Imaging in Cancer Management, Second Edition: Breast Cancer. 2nd ed. In: Nicholson T; 2014. Accessed January 6, 2025. https://www.rcr.ac.uk/media/0f5kcvml/rcr-publications_recommendations-for-cross-sectional-imaging-in-cancer-management-second-edition-26-breast-cancer_april-2022.pdf
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