Role of MRI of the breast in the evaluation of the  symptomatic patient.
OBJECTIVE
The role of MRI in breast pathology is still controversial. The technique has a high sensitivity for detection of breast carcinoma, but specificity is low. Therefore, it is only useful for right indications.


RESULTS
Studies are still performed to define the role of MRI. For diagnosis of a breast lesion, image-guided percutaneous core biopsy is the method of choice, and MRI is not indicated. It has a place in the detection of carcinoma in patients with nipple discharge. MRI has a role in the search of an occult primary breast carcinoma in patients with metastasis and primary unknown cancer. MRI is the best technique for locoregional staging of breast carcinoma. Its role in detection of recurrence is controversial, as image-guided biopsy has to be done if a suspicious lesion is seen. In dense breasts or difficult scar formation, MRI is able to detect recurrence. MRI is sensitive in detection of implant rupture in symptomatic augmented patients.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI has a role in well defined indications, but its role is still controversial even in some of these indications. MRI is not indicated in diagnosis in which image-guided percutaneous biopsy is the method of choice. Further studies must be performed.
Van Goethem
Mireille
M
Department of Radiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem-Antwerpen, Belgium. mireille_van_goethem@hotmail.com
Verslegers
Inge
I
Biltjes
Isabelle
I
Hufkens
Godelieve
G
Parizel
Paul M
PM
D001706:Biopsy / Q000379:methods; D001940:Breast / Q000473:pathology; D018427:Breast Implants / Q000009:adverse effects; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology; D002277:Carcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008413:Mastitis / Q000175:diagnosis; D009367:Neoplasm Staging / Q000379:methods; D009558:Nipples / Q000473:pathology; D012008:Recurrence; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity