[The radial scar in contrast media-enhanced MR mammography].

INTRODUCTION

In patients with the mammographic findings of a radial scar, contrast enhanced (CE) MR mammography was evaluated in a retrospective study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In 24 women with radial opacities and black star configurations, CE MR mammography was performed. Examinations were done on a 1.5 T system using bilateral superficial coil (2D technique, T1-weighted FLASH-sequence, TR 336 ms, TE 5 ms, FA 90 degrees). Findings in mammography and MR mammography were compared with the histological results.

RESULTS

15 radial scars (including 4 with additional ADH) and 9 carcinomas (6 in coexistence with a radial scar) presenting with a diameter of 3 mm to 13 mm were evaluated. There was no evidence of malignancy in MRI in 12 of 15 radial scars. In MR mammography 6 of the carcinomas fulfilled the criteria for malignant tumors. There were 3 borderline cases (scored 3 points) corresponding histologically to 1 radial scar, and to 2 carcinomas. Within the results found in MRI there were 2 false positives and 1 false negative.

CONCLUSION

CE MR mammography is superior to other imaging modalities in the differentiation between radial scars and carcinomas. However, lesions suggestive of radial scars have to be removed surgically.