Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Evaluating the Extent of Disease

Preoperative breast imaging evaluation can contribute useful clinical information to the management of the patient with known breast cancer. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used as part of this imaging evaluation, and the ability of breast MRI to detect otherwise occult multifocal and multicentric disease has been demonstrated in multiple studies. The use of MRI for breast cancer staging remains under debate, however. This article reviews some of the current discussion regarding the use of breast MRI in this patient population. It is important to note that this discussion occurs in an evolving context of surgical and breast conservation therapies.