Screening for High-Familial-Risk Women

Women with a high familial breast cancer risk have an increased likelihood of developing breast cancer and a subsequent increased risk of developing contralateral malignancy. Therefore, additional surveillance has been recommended to reduce risks. Mammography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the three modalities that have been evaluated as screening tools for these women. Breast MRI is the most sensitive screening modality in this setting, especially in younger women, but mammography is also beneficial. Optimal screening may be achieved with a multimodal approach with age-specific protocols that balance sensitivity and cost efficacy.