Contrast Enhanced Mammography for Breast Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a new imaging method, Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM), can detect breast cancer more effectively than regular mammograms in women with dense breasts. Dense breast tissue can make cancer detection more challenging with traditional mammograms. Women with dense breasts who regularly undergo mammograms might be suitable candidates for this study. The goal is to enhance cancer detection and help women better understand their breast cancer risk.
As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures CEM's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, providing participants an opportunity to contribute to advancements in breast cancer detection.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on imaging technology, so it's unlikely that your medications will be affected, but you should confirm with the trial coordinators.
What prior data suggests that Contrast-Enhanced Mammography is safe for detecting breast cancers in women with dense breasts?
Research has shown that Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) is generally safe for patients. Studies indicate that only about 0.007% of patients experience a reaction to the contrast dye. This means that out of 10,000 people, fewer than one person might have a reaction. The FDA has approved the contrast dye used in CEM, called Ultravist® (iopromide), confirming its thorough safety testing. However, like any medical procedure, there are some risks, such as slightly increased radiation exposure compared to standard mammography. Overall, CEM is considered safe and well-tolerated for most women.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM) is unique because it offers a more detailed imaging technique for breast cancer screening, especially in women with dense breast tissue. Unlike traditional mammography, which sometimes struggles to differentiate between dense tissue and potential tumors, CEM uses a contrast agent that highlights areas of increased blood flow, often associated with cancerous tissues. This enhanced visibility can lead to earlier and more accurate detection of breast cancer, which is why researchers are excited about its potential to improve screening outcomes.
What evidence suggests that Contrast-Enhanced Mammography is effective for detecting breast cancers in women with dense breasts?
Research has shown that Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM), which participants in this trial will undergo, helps detect breast cancers more effectively in women with dense breast tissue. One study found that CEM increased cancer detection to 87.5%, compared to 50% with regular mammography. Another study reported that CEM detected cancer in 13.1 out of every 1,000 cases. Adding CEM to other imaging methods significantly improved early detection of breast cancer. These findings suggest that CEM is a useful tool for screening breast cancer in women with dense breasts.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Olena Weaver, MD
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Imaging
Participants undergo contrast-enhanced mammography for breast cancer screening
Data Collection
Collection of imaging, clinical data, health measurements, and questionnaire data
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after imaging
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- CEM
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor