Magnetic Resonance Mammography: Actual Trends and Perspectives

Introduction: Magnetic Resonance Mammography (MRM) is a new radiologic examination with wide perspectives in breast cancer diagnosis. We performed a systematic review of the literature, in order to obtain a clear view on the actual role of MRM, together with an accurate evaluation of its performance in clinical settings.
Material and methods: We conducted a thorough PubMed search, both directly and through MeSH (Medical Subject Headings), using specific keywords. We then applied the following filters: articles published only between 1999 and 2011 and written in English or French. Priority was given to reviews and clinic trials according to previously set criteria.
Results: We evaluated the clinical efficiency of MRM using sensitivity, specificity and predictive values (positive and negative). Sensitivity varied between 81 and 98%, while specificity had a much wider dispersion (65–93%), thus supporting the statement that MRM is a sensitive but not a specific examination. Diffusion MRM was comparable to standard MRM, while spectroscopy showed a low sensitivity and a high specificity.
Conclusions: MRM is a complex investigation, with well documented recommendations and good sensitivity. Diagnostic specificity remains an important issue, but with improvement perspectives from new techniques like diffusion and spectroscopy.