MRI BREAST WITH CONTRAST

Breast MRI Scan with Contrast: Overview, Uses & Importance

MRI of the breast with contrast is a sensitive imaging method that enhances the evaluation of breast tissues, cancer detection, and surveillance in high-risk patients. The use of contrast material (usually gadolinium) improves clarity and allows for clearer visualization of abnormal tissues, tumours, and blood vessels.  

What is a Breast MRI Test with Contrast and How Does It Work? 

MRI of the breast with contrast is an advanced diagnostic technique that utilizes magnetic fields and gadolinium-based dyes to illuminate pathological tissue, providing thorough three-dimensional views of both breasts, capturing and discerning even minute tumours which might remain hidden in mammograms or ultrasounds. 

Key Parameters in Breast MRI Test with Contrast Interpretation

• Time elapsed since breast injections to be evaluated post contrast 15minutes 
• Age of girl 
• Mass, contours and borders of the lesions 
• Involvement of the axillary lymph node 
• Degree of breast regarded as normal post-surgery and post treatment 

Top Reasons for Recommending a Breast MRI Scan with Contrast

• Evaluation checks post MRI, chemotherapy undertaken, or surgery with the goal of intervention such as repeat surgery. 
• Establish targets for lesions goals post the initial intervention. 
• Identify possibilities for advanced treatments due to incomplete response or new lesions. 
• Evaluating breast implants for leaks and ruptured implants 

When and Who Should Get a Breast MRI Scan with Contrast? 

Clearing and Criteria 

• Undergoing routine screening for pits of high-risk breast cancer 
• Breast cancer patients under therapy as per treatment responses and staging 
• Breast implant assessment 
• Abnormal thickening or nipple discharge without obvious explanation. 
• Unexplained ultrasound or mammogram results 

Relevant Patients: 

• Women with known familial or genetic predisposition such as BRCA1/2 positive. 
• Diagnosed breast cancer patients. 
• Patients with dense breasts. 
• Patients on active monitoring for chemotherapy or hormone therapy. 

Benefits of Breast MRI Test with Contrast for Cancer Detection

• Outstanding for identifying cancer 
• Excellent for women with dense breasts 
• A multifaceted assessment that combines functional and physical evaluation 
• Capable of detecting multifocal or bilateral disease 
• Requires no invasive techniques and is safe when certain guidelines are followed 

Conditions Diagnosed Using Breast MRI Scan with Contrast

• Invasive breast cancer 
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) 
• Multifocal/multicentric disease 
• Axillary lymphadenopathy 
• Post-surgical scar or recurrence 
• Ruptured or leaking implants 
• Benign tumours such as fibroadenomas and cysts 

How to Prepare for a Breast MRI Test with Contrast

• Schedule an appointment in the 7–14-day window post menstruation (for premenopausal women)  
• Do not apply any creams, deodorants, or powders the day of the examination 
• Remove all metal items including jewellery 
• Drink enough water before and after the appointment, especially for those requiring contrast imaging 
• Advise the technician of any previous surgeries, implants, allergic reactions, and other pertinent medical history 

Pre-requisites Before Getting a Breast MRI Scan with Contrast 

• Doctor’s referral letter stipulating pathology warranting an MRI 
• Assessment of renal function (eGFR) if contrast MRI is planned 
• Ultrasound or mammogram may be a prerequisite before MRI 
• Documented clinical background with details of the menstrual cycle 

Best Time to Perform a Breast MRI Scan with Contrast 

• Day 7-14 of menstrual cycle for premenopausal patients 
• Prior to surgical intervention or biopsy 
• Post chemotherapy for evaluating the response to treatment 

Eligibility for Breast MRI Test with Contrast 

• Women with confirmed or potential breast malignancy 
• Patients with a significant family history or pathological predisposition 
• Implant holders with a presumed rupture 
• Not appropriate for persons with MRI non-compatible >implants or severe renal insufficiency 

Breast MRI with Contrast Procedure 

• The patient is positioned prone with the breasts cantered into dedicated breast coils. 
• An intravenous (IV) access is established for contrast (gadolinium) injection. 
• Image acquisitions are done prior and after contrast injection. 
• Scan time ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. 
• Constant minimal movement is required from the patient throughout the duration of the procedure. 

Caution During a Breast MRI Scan with Contrast 

• Assess renal function prior to gadolinium administration. 
• Screen for metal implants, reactions to contrast, and other allergies. 
• Notify if they are pregnant, lactating, or taking any therapies.