RECENT research has revealed that automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) screening with remote reading could significantly improve breast cancer detection and access to early diagnosis in resource-limited areas. The research, carried out by a team at Fourth Military Medical University, Shaanxi, China, the research suggests that ABUS screening meets benchmark standards for cancer detection, comparable to traditional mammography, and demonstrates low rates of missed cancers.
“Screening by ABUS may help address challenges in national mammography screening in China related to cost, equipment, and low adoption rates,” the group stated. In China, barriers like high costs and low adoption have hindered the implementation of widespread mammographic screening programs, leaving many women without access to regular screenings.
The study enrolled 5,978 asymptomatic women between 35 and 69 years of age from 46 community health centres across 18 Chinese provinces. Using ABUS as the sole screening tool, technicians at these centres captured breast images that were then transferred via cloud-based software to a centralized remote reading centre. There, two breast radiologists independently reviewed the images with a third radiologist resolving any discrepancies, allowing diagnostic reports to be sent back to local centres for follow-up care.
Of the women screened, ABUS detected 24 breast cancers, achieving a detection rate of four per 1,000 women. With a 92.3% sensitivity rate, 88.4% specificity rate, and 24% positive predictive value for biopsies, ABUS demonstrated reliable performance, showing promise as a primary screening tool in underserved regions. Notably, 95.8% of detected cancers were invasive, with a median size of 10 mm, allowing for early intervention in most cases.
The researchers emphasised the potential of ABUS combined with teleradiology to enhance screening access where mammography is unavailable. However, they noted the importance of safeguarding patient data and ensuring quality control in the teleradiology process to maintain patient trust and comply with healthcare regulations.
Reference
Dang X et al. Automated breast ultrasound with remote reading for primary breast cancer screening: a prospective study involving 46 community health centers in China. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2024;DOI:10.2214/AJR.24.31830.
