Assessing mammographic accuracy for benign and malignant lesions by comparing the histological findings with the mammographic interpretations.

Abstract

Currently, breast cancer has been one of the major issues amongst researchers worldwide. European figures quote an approximate 32 breast cancer mortality rate per 100,000 European inhabitants (World Health Organisation 1990), while the Maltese figures an approximate 36 breast cancer mortality rate per 100,000 inhabitants (Department of Health Information 1994 ). Various studies have been performed on breast lesions. Until now, mammography seems to be the most accurate modality in the detection of both benign and malignant lesions of the breast. They have estimated mammography to be in the range of 80% to 97% sensitive in postmenopausal women (above 50 years of age), reducing to between 56% and 68% in younger women, and even less below the age of 35. This discrepancy is mainly due to the fact that younger patients have denser breast tissue, resulting in poor image readability. The aim of this study was to assess mammographic accuracy for benign and malignant lesions having undergone a surgical verification. Results obtained from this study revealed mammography to be 88% sensitive in older women while 67% sensitive in younger women. It also indicated that younger women, in fact, tended to have denser breasts which prompted wrong interpretations and, thus, a reduced sensitivity. The figures in this study show that results obtained are similar to the ones obtained in studies performed abroad.