APPLICATIONS OF CONTRAST-ENHANCED MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING IN BREAST CANCER STAGING AND FOLLOW-UP

Abstract

Breast cancer has a high incidence and heterogeneity, demanding precise diagnostic methods. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), especially contrast-enhanced, stands out for its high sensitivity in tumor assessment, overcoming the limitations of mammography and ultrasonography. This study aimed to analyze the role of MRI in breast cancer staging and follow-up, evaluating its accuracy, clinical applicability, advantages, limitations, and therapeutic impact. This is an integrative literature review, with searches in the VHL and PubMed databases, using descriptors related to breast cancer, MRI, and staging/follow-up. Studies from the last 10 years were included, with 14 articles composing the final sample after PRISMA criteria. Results evidence the high sensitivity of MRI in assessing tumor extent, detecting additional lesions, and early identification of recurrences. In preoperative staging, it contributes to better surgical planning, while in follow-up, it allows for therapeutic response assessment. However, it presents limitations such as lower specificity, high cost, and risk of false-positives. It is concluded that contrast-enhanced MRI is an essential tool in breast cancer management, and it should be used judiciously and complementary to other methods.