Molecular Breast Imaging

Molecular Breast Imaging

Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) is a diagnostic imaging technique used to detect breast cancer in women with dense breast tissue. It is a relatively new technology that offers an alternative to mammography for screening and diagnosing breast cancer.

Overview

MBI utilizes a small, specialized camera that is able to detect the presence of cancer cells in the breast tissue. Unlike mammography, which uses X-rays to create images of the breast, MBI relies on the injection of a radioactive tracer into the patient's bloodstream. This tracer is specifically designed to bind to cancer cells, making them visible to the camera.

The MBI camera is positioned close to the breast, allowing it to capture detailed images of the breast tissue. The images produced by MBI are similar to those obtained through mammography, but with some key differences. MBI is particularly effective in detecting cancer in women with dense breast tissue, where mammography may be less accurate.

Procedure

The MBI procedure involves several steps:

1. Injection of the radioactive tracer: A small amount of a radioactive substance, such as Technetium-99m sestamibi, is injected into the patient's bloodstream. This tracer is specifically designed to bind to cancer cells in the breast.

2. Waiting period: After the injection, the patient typically waits for a short period of time to allow the tracer to circulate throughout the body and accumulate in the breast tissue.

3. Imaging: The patient lies on a table and the MBI camera is positioned close to the breast. The camera captures images of the breast tissue, highlighting areas where the tracer has accumulated. These images are then analyzed by a radiologist to determine if there are any signs of cancer.

4. Follow-up: If any suspicious areas are identified, further diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy, may be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer.

Advantages and Limitations

MBI offers several advantages over mammography, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. Some of the key advantages include:

- Improved accuracy: MBI has been shown to be more effective in detecting cancer in women with dense breast tissue compared to mammography alone.

- Reduced false positives: MBI has a lower rate of false positive results compared to mammography, reducing unnecessary follow-up tests and anxiety for patients.

- Additional screening option: MBI can be used as an additional screening tool for women at high risk of breast cancer or those with inconclusive mammography results.

However, MBI also has some limitations:

- Radiation exposure: MBI involves the use of a radioactive tracer, which exposes the patient to a small amount of radiation. While the radiation dose is considered safe, it is important to consider the potential risks and benefits.

- Cost and availability: MBI is a relatively new technology and may not be widely available in all healthcare facilities. Additionally, the cost of MBI may be higher compared to mammography.

Conclusion

Molecular Breast Imaging is an innovative diagnostic imaging technique that offers an alternative to mammography for detecting breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. It provides improved accuracy and reduced false positives compared to mammography alone. However, it is important to consider the potential limitations and discuss with a healthcare provider to determine if MBI is the right option for individual circumstances.

See Also

• Breast Cancer
• Mammography
• Dense Breast Tissue