Can preoperative 3-T MRI predict nipple-areolar complex involvement in patients with breast cancer?

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic performances of preoperative 3-T breast MRI for predicting nipple-areolar complex (NAC) involvement.

Materials and methods: We analyzed the predictors of NAC involvement in breast cancer, with diagnostic performances.

Results: Among the 403 patients, 43 cases were surgically confirmed for NAC involvement. For predicting NAC involvement, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 60.5%, 87.5%, 36.6%, 94.9%, and 84.6%, respectively. Continuity to NAC, unilateral enhancement of NAC and thickening of NAC were significant magnetic resonance findings predictive of NAC involvement.

Conclusions: Preoperative 3-T breast MRI is a useful method to predict NAC involvement in breast cancer patients.

Keywords: 3 T; Breast; Breast MRI; Breast cancer; Nipple–areolar complex.