Contour analysis of mammographic images in benign and malignant breast diseases

Aim. Development and evaluation of the diagnostic value of techniques for quantitative analysis of masses on mammographic images satisfying the requirements of categories 2-4 in BIRADS (Breast Imaging Reporting And Data System - the system for classification and description of breast imaging results of the American College of Radiology).

Methods. Images of 375 focal lesions revealed on mammography (211 malignant and 164 benign, all were verified morphologically), satisfying the criteria 2-4 according to BIRADS classification, were analyzed. Mathematical processing was performed using the MammCheck 1.15 software package developed by authors, which uploads the obtained images. Contour, segments of area, peripheral outlines, homogeneity and inner outlines indexes were calculated.

Results.The statistical analysis of foci at standard mammography images of BIRADS 2-4 categories revealed no statistically significant difference in all four estimated parameters. When using tomosynthesis images, statistically significant difference was discovered in the outline index in the groups of benign and malignant foci (mean ± standard deviation: 1.73±1.11 vs. 3.11±2.02, respectively, p

Conclusion. Outline analysis of mammograms, including those obtained using tomosynthesis, does not provide the necessary level of specificity for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant microcalcifications and clusters.