Appropriate use of breast imaging modalities

Technological advancements in breast imaging continue to improve the ability to diagnose breast cancer early, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Modalities other than mammography characterize areas of concern identified on screening mammograms to improve specificity of the screening system and reduce biopsies performed on negative lesions. With new breast imaging techniques and modalities constantly emerging, staying current has become difficult. This article reviews the role of current and emerging imaging modalities in screening, diagnosing, and continued assessment for breast cancer, as well as the currently accepted appropriate uses of each.