Quantitative MR Imaging of the Breast

Abstract

Breast MRI has become essential for diagnosing and managing breast diseases. MRI interpretation has traditionally relied on subjective assessment according to Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System, but recent advances emphasize the value of quantitative MRI data as objective imaging biomarkers. Techniques such as dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI), including ultrafast DCE-MRI and diffusion-weighted imaging are the most established for quantitative analysis, yet their routine application is limited by a lack of standardization in imaging protocols. Recent efforts focus on improving reproducibility, with studies showing that significant changes in the apparent diffusion coefficient can reliably indicate biological alterations in breast lesions. Emerging quantitative MRI approaches including synthetic MRI and fat imaging show promise in lesion characterization and treatment response assessment but require further validation and harmonization before widespread clinical use. For methodological aspect, radiomics has demonstrated strong diagnostic and predictive capabilities in breast MRI research. Quantitative approach for background parenchymal enhancement indicated its association with future breast cancer incidence or recurrence. Continued efforts to standardize and validate quantitative MRI parameters are crucial to fully integrating these tools into routine breast imaging practice.