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Mammograms Hard to Read Even When There's a Lump

Radiologists miss tumors 21% of the time

By Lucas Laursen,  Newser Staff

Posted Dec 12, 2007 10:23 AM CST

(Newser) – The accuracy of mammograms is highly dependent on the radiologist reading them, not only in finding easy-to-miss tumors but in diagnosing visible lumps, reports Reuters. "On average, 21 percent of breast cancers were missed and 4.3 percent of women underwent a biopsy even though they didn't have breast cancer," said the lead researcher.

The study looked at the work of 123 radiologists over 7 years, at 72 different labs. They found a range in sensitivity—the ability to accurately detect cancer—of  27% to 100%. False positives ranged from 0 to 16%. "It's not necessarily the mammographer's fault," the researcher warned. "It's the limitation of the technology." The most accurate radiologists tended to be those at academic facilities or who specialize in breast imaging, which is rare in the US.

Dr. Murray Rebner reviews a mammogram done using digital technology at Beaumont Hospital in Michigan.
Dr. Murray Rebner reviews a mammogram done using digital technology at Beaumont Hospital in Michigan.   (KRT Photos)
Nancy Hayes, 43, left, undergoes a digital mammogram as Beaumont radiologic technician Shayrn Schymick takes notes.
Nancy Hayes, 43, left, undergoes a digital mammogram as Beaumont radiologic technician Shayrn Schymick takes notes.   (KRT Photos)
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