Contrast Agents for Mammography

When engaging in a diagnostic imaging procedure it’s vital to understand the procedure in detail. It’s important for the doctor performing the procedure to explain everything to the patient. It’s also vital for the patient to ask every question that they may have in mind. From radiation concerns, to possible to discomfort, to ultimate expectations it is of utmost importance for the patient and doctor to have an understanding.

Often times one particularly difficult subject is that of a contrast agent. A contrast agent is defined as “A substance introduced into a part of the body in order to improve the visibility of internal structure during radiography.” It’s important to be able to have the right agent and often times the right medium depends on the procedure as well as the patient.

Let’s talk about contrast mediums for mammography and what we know. Based on studies dating back to 2003 it’s been concluded that enhanced digital mammography is useful in lesions in mammographically dense breasts. The question about which type of media is used or could be used is a fair one to ask, even though contrast agents in mammography are not yet completely implemented.

An iodine based contrast medium can be used. Iodine based means that the media used has a high concentration of iodine. The patient’s initial thought may be a little panic but it doesn’t mean that it’s something to fear. The contrast agents are high osmolar and low osmolar contrast agents. The contrast medium is applied through the use a needle and the level of concentration depends a great deal on how radiopaque the agent itself will be.