Contrast Mammography – A New Opportunity in Breast Cancer Detection

A modern medical science is evolving, offering new opportunities for the early detection of diseases, particularly in the field of cancer. Breast cancer, being the most common tumor among women, poses a significant challenge to public health. The application of appropriate diagnostic tools and methods is essential for the timely identification and treatment of the disease. Early detection of breast tumors is crucial, as survival rates heavily depend on the extent of the disease. Technological innovations, such as contrast-enhanced mammography, are becoming increasingly available, enabling more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatments.

Contrast-enhanced mammography not only improves the diagnostic process but also offers a more comfortable and less painful solution for patients. The speed and efficiency of the examinations allow patients to receive information about their health status as soon as possible, which can contribute to increasing their chances of recovery. Therefore, the introduction of new equipment represents not only a technological advancement but also plays a key role in maintaining women’s health.

Occurrence of Breast Tumors in Hungary

In Hungary, approximately 5,000 to 6,000 new breast cancer cases are registered each year, making it the most common cancer among women. Unfortunately, as a consequence of the disease, about 2,000 women lose their lives each year. Early detection of breast cancer is essential for successful treatment. Statistics show that if the tumor is diagnosed at an early stage, the survival rate can reach up to 80%.

Prevention and screening play a key role in the fight against breast cancer. Although there are no guaranteed methods for preventing the disease, regular screenings can significantly reduce risks. The most commonly used method during screening examinations is mammography, which allows for the early detection of cancerous changes. The WHO also confirms that mammography is the only effective method for screening breast cancer.

During mammography examinations, specialists can identify cancerous changes, and it is important to determine the extent and nature of the pathological changes for an accurate diagnosis. With the introduction of contrast-enhanced mammography, diagnostic options have expanded significantly, providing specialists with even more precise information.

Advantages of Contrast-Enhanced Mammography

Contrast-enhanced mammography is a next-generation diagnostic tool that provides a much more accurate picture of cancerous changes compared to traditional mammography. The examination takes only 10 minutes and is performed painlessly. During the procedure, images are first taken without contrast agents, followed by the intravenous administration of the contrast agent, after which additional images are taken that allow for precise identification of pathological changes.

Contrast-enhanced mammography not only increases the accuracy of the examination but also plays an important role in developing treatment plans. An accurate diagnosis enables specialists to select the most appropriate therapy for patients, thereby increasing the chances of recovery. The examination can also be particularly useful for patients for whom an MRI cannot be performed for some reason.

For healthcare institutions using contrast-enhanced mammography, it is also advantageous as it alleviates the burden on limited-capacity MRI machines, thereby reducing patient waiting times. The contrast agent used during the procedure is based on decades of experience and does not accumulate in the body. Potential allergic reactions are rare and can be effectively managed, making the examination completely safe.

How to Access the Examination?

The contrast-enhanced mammography examination can be accessed with a referral from a specialist or through a private service for a fee. The best time for the examination is during the week following menstruation, as this improves the evaluability of the images. No special preparation is required before the procedure, only cosmetics applied to the skin should be removed.

Mammography is recommended for individuals aged 35 to 65, depending on the risk factors the patient is exposed to. For younger women, the radiologist decides whether the examination is necessary. Regular screenings are particularly important for those at higher risk due to the presence of the BRCA gene or a family history of the disease.

The new equipment not only expands diagnostic capabilities but also considers patient comfort. During the examination, patients can hold a button that allows them to regulate the compression, and large LCD screens in the examination room display relaxing images and sounds to help maintain calm. Therefore, contrast-enhanced mammography not only improves the accuracy of diagnoses but also provides a more comfortable, stress-free experience for patients.