R.T. Readings Improve Cancer Detection

摘要

The addition of an independent double reading of mammograms by radiologic technologists to an independent double reading by radiologists helps detect more breast cancers, according to a new study from the Netherlands. Researchers concluded that all technologist-positive readings should be considered for referral because this subset of screening mammograms showed a high prevalence of breast cancer. In the Netherlands, screening technologists have been encouraged to look for mammographic abnormalities since 1995. The technologists attend quality assurance sessions once every 3 weeks, where they bring to the attention of a supervising breast radiologist any mammographic abnormalities they have identified that may require additional workup. As a result of this intensive and continuous education, the screening technologists gain considerable experience in reading mammograms.