Molecular Breast Imaging for Dense Breasts

(MBI-GB-Pilot Trial)

This trial tests a screening method called Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) to determine if it detects breast cancer more effectively than the usual 3D mammogram (DBT) in women with dense breasts. It also examines whether MBI results in more call-backs for biopsies and how well MBI-guided biopsies align with lab results. Women with dense breasts, characterized by more fibrous tissue than fatty tissue, may be suitable for this study. Participants will undergo both types of screenings and, if necessary, a biopsy guided by one of the methods. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to important research that could enhance breast cancer detection methods.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) is safe for regular screening. Studies have found that patients tolerate MBI well, and it uses a very low amount of radiation, making it safe for routine use. Additionally, MBI-guided biopsy, which might be part of the trial, is safe and reliable for obtaining breast tissue samples. Although all medical tests carry some risks, evidence suggests that both MBI and MBI-guided biopsy are safe options for women with dense breast tissue.¹²³⁴⁵

Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) is unique because it offers a new approach to screening for women with dense breast tissue, which can make detecting cancer more challenging with traditional mammography. Unlike standard methods like Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), MBI uses a special gamma camera to highlight areas of concern, potentially spotting cancers that other techniques might miss. Researchers are excited about MBI because it could improve early detection rates in dense breasts, leading to better outcomes and potentially reducing the need for invasive biopsies.

Research shows that Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI), studied in this trial, can more effectively detect breast cancer in women with dense breast tissue compared to traditional methods. Studies have found that MBI detects cancer in 12 out of every 1,000 women, while traditional 2D mammograms find about 3.2 out of 1,000. Additionally, when combined with regular mammograms, MBI can detect 7 to 8 more cancers per 1,000 women. This suggests that MBI might identify cancers that other methods miss, particularly in dense breasts. In this trial, MBI-guided biopsies are also under evaluation, with research suggesting they could enhance the accuracy of cancer detection.¹³⁴⁶⁷