A Contrast-Enhanced Mammography: diagnostic potential and complementary role in screening

Abstract

Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) represents one of the most prominent innovations in breast diagnostics. This is a hybrid technique, combining digital mammography images with iodinated contrast injection, allowing for better visualization of areas with increased vascularity, which are typically associated with malignant lesions. In this study we report our experience, held at the Diagnostic Imaging Unit of the Sant'Ottone Frangipane Hospital in Ariano Irpino, analyzing the data collected in the period from 1 January 2025 to 1 July 2025. During this interval, 642 screening mammograms were performed. 22 patients (2.3%) were recalled for EMF, following a finding of BI-RADS 3 or greater on screening mammography.

The analysis focuses on the distribution of EMFs according to the BIRADS classification, the type of contrast agent used, as well as the evaluation of the correlation between positive EMF results and the histological outcome obtained by vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB).