Type of publication:
Conference abstract
Author(s):
*Chai A.; Hutchison G.;
Citation:
Breast Cancer Research. Conference: British Society of Breast Radiology Annual Scientific Meeting 2024. Liverpool United Kingdom. 27(Supplement 1) (no pagination), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2025.
Abstract:
Background The Targeted Lung Health Check Programme offers low-dose CT scans to populations at higher risk of lung cancer. Like other forms of crosssectional imaging, this can produce incidental findings, resulting in onward referral to specialist services and increased patient anxiety which may be unnecessary. We investigated the frequency of incidental breast lesions found through this programme. Method: A retrospective review of all patients with breast findings detected by LDCT from November 2019 and July 2024. Their referral method for breast assessment, findings on breast imaging, and biopsy results were recorded. Results 52 patients (64.19 5.84 years) had breast lesions reported. Of these, 50 (96%) were female. 39 cases were first discussed with a breast radiologist, 26 (66%) of which were referred for triple assessment. 13 cases did not have initial input from a breast specialist, 10 (77%) of which were referred for assessment. The average number of days between LDCT and breast assessment was 35.89 19.64 days, and the highest score on imaging was 2.79 1.40. 8 patients were biopsied, with 5 having malignant findings. All 5 malignant cases had been discussed with a breast radiologist prior to breast clinic referral. Discussion(s): Lower referral rates were seen when a breast specialist opinion was requested prior to referral. This allowed savings in clinic capacity and reduction in patient anxiety caused by unnecessary referral.
DOI: 10.1186/s13058-025-02023-8
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