WHAT IS CONTRAST-ENHANCED MAMMOGRAM
Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) is a quick breast imaging technique combining 3D Tomosynthesis digital mammography with an intravenous contrast agent.
Contrast-Enhanced Mammography shows new or unusual blood flow patterns that develop when cancers grow. These highlighted areas make it easier to identify any cancer earlier.
Why may I need a CEM?
Your doctor may recommend that you have a CEM to:
- Screen for breast cancer.
- CEM may be useful especially for women who are at increased risk for getting breast cancer
- Women who have dense breasts.
- Check any lumps in your breast(s) that were found during a physical exam.
- Patients who are unable to get early appointment for breast MRI
- To check the extent of a breast cancer
- Surgeons’ referral prior surgery
BENEFITS OF CONTRAST-ENHANCED MAMMOGRAM
What are the benefits of a CEM?
A contrast-enhanced mammogram (CEM) offers several benefits over traditional mammography:
- Increased Detection Rate: CEM can detect cancers that might not be visible on standard mammograms, especially in women with dense breast tissue
- Early Detection: It enables the identification of cancers at very early stages, which can significantly improve survival rates
- Detailed Information: CEM provides better information about the extent of newly diagnosed breast cancers, aiding in effective treatment planning
- Reduced Need for Additional Tests: By providing more comprehensive imaging, CEM can reduce the need for additional tests like breast ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies
- Cost and Time Efficiency: Compared to MRI, CEM is generally lower in cost and requires a shorter procedure time
- Unaffected by Dense Breast Tissue: Unlike traditional mammograms, CEM is not affected by dense breast tissue, making it a more reliable option for many women
These benefits make CEM a valuable tool in breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CEM AND 3D MAMMOGRAM
CEM is different from 3D mammograms (also known as tomosynthesis). 3D mammograms use multiple thin images to evaluate the breast. This is like a computed tomography (CT) scan.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend you have a CEM instead of a 3D mammogram if you have dense breasts.
