[MRI for breast disease diagnosis; an asset, but the proper place has to be determined first]

Abstract

MRI of the breast is a technique of increasing clinical importance. As a screening modality it is superior to mammography in young females with a familial or genetic predisposition. Still, the ultimate effect, particularly the benefit for the individual patient, requires further study. Because of the relatively low specificity, the number of false positive findings is high, while the need for histological confirmation may cause unnecessary delays in treatment. Both lead to high costs for the patient as well as for the community. For the time being, MRI of the breast should not be introduced as a routine examination in patients with a suspicion of breast cancer and should be confined to centres with special experience in the management of MRI-detected lesions.