RESTON, Va -- November 20, 2009 -- A simple blood test corresponding to the follicular phase (days 3-14) of a normal menstrual cycle can aid in optimal scheduling of breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams in premenopausal women with irregular cycles, according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.
According to the study, use of the test can possibly reduce the number of repeat scans and non-diagnostic tests patients experience, in addition to providing clearer images on which physicians make their recommendations.
Research has shown that performing breast MRI scans during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle minimises breast tissue enhancement.
"In practice, many clinicians scan premenopausal women who lack normal menstrual cycles without regard to the timing of their hormonal cycle," said lead author Richard L. Ellis, MD, Norma J. Vinger Center for Breast Care, Lacrosse, Wisconsin. "This can result in non-diagnostic exams and repeat scans."
Using what is already known about the menstrual cycle and its effects upon normal breast tissue, Dr. Ellis reasoned that a simple blood test could be used to optimise the timing of breast MRI exams.
For the study, blood tests were used to time exams in 11 women with irregular cycles. "None of the breast MRI scans performed in our small group of women resulted in high background enhancement of normal breast tissue requiring a repeat scan," he said.
"Appropriate timing of a breast MRI examination for premenopausal women who do not have a normal menstrual cycle is a challenge," said Dr. Ellis.
"However, using existing science, we found that a simple blood test to determine a woman's serum progesterone concentration can aid in optimal timing of breast MRI. This is significant in an ever-increasing population of women requiring or eligible for breast MRI."
SOURCE: American Journal of Roentgenology
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