Microfocal Spot Magnification Mammography Using Xeroradiographic and Screen-Film Recording Systems

Abstract

Direct radiographic magnification (1.5 .times.) of the breast, using a microfocal spot X-ray tube and either a xeroradiographic or screen-film recording system, produces images superior in quality (improved resolution, reduced noise) to conventional contact mammograms. Patients (621) had a single magnification mammogram in addition to conventional mammography; 216 subsequently underwent biopsy within 1 mo. of study. The additional magnification mammogram increased the diagnostic accuracy of the conventional examination in 40% of the pathologically proved cases, particularly among those for which conventional mammograms were interpreted as equivocal for malignancy. The superior image quality of magnification mammograms appears useful in distinguishing malignant from benign breast disease.