“Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Breast MRI for Evaluating Residual Tumor Size after Neo-adjuvant Chemotherapy”

Abstract

RI is known to be the most accurate modality for assessing tumor size compared to conventional imaging modalities like sonomammography. However, MRI when performed after NAC its accuracy is affected. Post-NAC MRI may underestimate or overestimate the residual size with higher underestimation rate. Delayed phase of DCE-MRI is more accurate than early phase and better correlate with post surgical histopathology, an observation that can improve the underestimation and surgical outcome. Tumor histologic type, mass shape, margin and enhancement pattern are all factors affecting MRI accuracy and early-late phases mismatch.