PET mammography reduces unnecessary biopsies

Positron-emission mammography may reduce unnecessary breast biopsies, according to data from an NIH-sponsored multisite study. Devices were provided by Naviscan. PEM demonstrated a 6% improvement in specificity compared with breast MR, according to the research. PEM also led to 31 fewer unnecessary biopsies and a 26% higher positive predicative value compared with breast MR.

“The results of this study mean not only do physicians have an additional, powerful tool to help treat breast cancer, but that PEM is a better alternative for the 16% of women who cannot tolerate MR due to claustrophobia, metallic implants, body habitus, or gadolinium reaction,” said Dr. Wendie Berg, principal investigator for the trial and breast imaging specialist at Johns Hopkins Health Care and Surgery Center at Green Spring Station in Lutherville, MD.

The trial examined women from six locations who had newly diagnosed breast cancer. Officials for Naviscan said they have submitted the manuscript to Radiology and anticipate a response by the end of April.