CEM
Our division was among the first in Italy to engage in contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM).
We conducted the first examinations in 2013 as part of a study protocol (protocol number: IEO S626/311); subsequent study protocols were carried out in 2020 and 2023 (protocol number: IEO 960).
Our division has published numerous scientific papers in national and international journals on this relatively recent and innovative technique, contributing to establishing the main indications of CEM in clinical practice and also exploring the role of radiomics in managing patients undergoing CEM (doi: 10.3390/healthcare11040511; doi: 10.3390/ijms232315322; doi: 10.1007/s11547-022-01561; doi: 10.3390/cancers14174337; doi: 10.1186/s13244-024-01612-z; doi: 10.3390/healthcare11111596; doi: 10.1007/s10549-023-07096-7; doi: 10.1007/s10549-023-07093-w; doi: 10.3390/cancers15092413; DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2023.02.008).
Currently, our division is evaluating the promising role that CEM may play in the management of patients with ductal carcinoma in situ.
CEM (clinical)
In recent years, Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) has shown its worth as a valuable tool in managing patients with breast lesions, showcasing outstanding diagnostic capabilities. Various international approved indications for implementing CEM in clinical settings exist, with key ones comprising: local and regional assessment of newly diagnosed breast cancer, problem solving, monitoring treatment response to neoadjuvant therapy, screening dense-breasted high-risk patients, and follow-up surveillance in individuals with a previous breast cancer history.
After gaining extensive experience in the scientific field, our division is ready to offer Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) in clinical practice.
VACUUM ASSISTED BREAST BIOPSY
Our division was at the forefront of conducting vacuum-assisted diagnostic procedures, utilizing ultrasound, stereotactic guidance, and MRI guidance. Consequently, numerous scientific publications have emerged in both national and international journals (doi: 10.1111/tbj.14216. Epub 2021 Mar 6; doi: 10.3390/cancers13040868; doi: 10.1007/s10549-022-06689-y. doi: 10.3390/cancers14020370; doi: 10.3390/diagnostics11061120; doi: 10.1007/s00330-014-3132-y; doi: 10.1007/s10549-006-9305-x. 10.1016/j.breast.2009.01.001; doi: 10.2214/AJR.10.4208.).
Currently, our division is investigating the role of vacuum-assisted biopsy (VAE) as a potential alternative to surgery for specific patients with certain pathologies (B3 and breast carcinoma in situ) in a study protocol (protocol number: UID3840). Additionally, we are among the first centers in Europe to explore the role of vacuum-assisted biopsies guided by contrast-enhanced mammography.
MALE BREAST CARCINOMA
Our division is a national reference point in the diagnostic management of patients with male breast carcinoma, a rare and challenging condition to manage. Recent research activities have demonstrated our division's significant expertise in handling this very rare pathology. Our latest works propose management guidelines for patients with a history of male breast tumor pathology or at higher risk of developing male breast neoplasms (doi: 10.1007/s10549-022-06689-y; doi: 10.3390/diagnostics14010104).