Variation in Mammographic Breast Density Assessments Among Radiologists in Clinical Practice

• DOI: 10.7326/m15-2934
• Publication Date: 2016-07-18T22:31:15Z
• Authors: Brian L. Sprague; Emily F. Conant; Tracy Onega; Michael P. Garcia; Elisabeth F. Beaber; Sally D. Herschorn; Constance D. Lehman; Anna N.A. Tosteson; Ronilda Lacson; Mitchell D. Schnall; Despina Kontos; Jennifer S. Haas; Donald L. Weaver; William E. Barlow
• Keywords: Interquartile range; Breast density; BI-RADS; Breast imaging; Breast Cancer Screening

About half of the United States has legislation requiring radiology facilities to disclose mammographic breast density information women, often with language recommending discussion supplemental screening options for women dense breasts.To examine variation in assessment across radiologists clinical practice.Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses prospectively collected observational data.30 within 3 cancer research centers Population-based Research Optimizing Screening through Personalized Regimens (PROSPR) consortium.Radiologists who interpreted at least 500 mammograms during 2011 2013 (n = 83). Data on 216 783 from 145 123 aged 40 89 years were included.Mammographic density, as clinically recorded using 4 Breast Imaging Reporting System categories (heterogeneously extremely considered "dense" analyses), patient age, race, body mass index (BMI).Overall, 36.9% rated showing breasts. Across radiologists, this percentage ranged 6.3% 84.5% (median, 38.7% [interquartile range, 28.9% 50.9%]), multivariable adjustment characteristics having little effect (interquartile 29.9% 50.8%). Examination subgroups revealed that was pervasive all but most extreme age BMI combinations. Among consecutive by different 17.2% (5909 34 271) had discordant assessments versus nondense status.Quantitative measures not available comparison.There is wide should be carefully providers policymakers when considering strategies. The likelihood a woman being told she breasts varies substantially according which radiologist interprets her mammogram.National Institutes Health.