Radiologist-performed hand-held ultrasound screening at average risk of breast cancer: results from a single health screening center

Abstract

Background: Ultrasound (US) screening is not currently recommended as a routine screening modality in the general population of average risk. The cancer detection yield and positive predictive value in an average risk general population who undergo breast screening by experienced radiologists is unclear. Purpose: To determine the performance of screening breast US in women at an average risk for breast cancer undergoing breast screening by experienced radiologists. Material and Methods: This study received institutional review board approval, and informed consent was waived. A retrospective review of our database revealed 1526 women who underwent prevalence screening US at a single health screening center and had negative findings on digital mammography (MG). The Breast Imaging and Reporting Data System (BI-RADS) final assessments of the breast US were analyzed retrospectively, with the reference standard defined as a combination of pathology and a 12-month follow-up. The cancer detection rate and positive predictive value (PPV2) of the biopsies were calculated according to breast density. Results: The average time to perform a screening US examination was 15-20 min. Of 1526 women, 1095 (71.8%) were classified as BI-RADS category 1 or 2