Cutting Edge Research, Better Results

At Penn, Our Abramson Cancer Center Improves Diagnosis and Outcomes with Latest Research

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in American women and the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer in women. In 2007 alone it is estimated that almost 200,000 women will be diagnosed with this disease. Of those, one in ten with cancer in one breast will develop it in the opposite breast.

Without adequate technology and experience, these contralateral breast cancers can often take years to diagnose, increasing patient anxiety, lowering chances of successful treatment and leading to additional procedures.

Breakthrough Research
A recent study by the American College of Radiology Imaging Network has shed new light on this subject. It found that the addition of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to mammography for high-risk women newly diagnosed with breast cancer led to the detection of more than 90 percent of cancers in the opposite breast missed by mammography.

In keeping with its long tradition of advancing medicine on all fronts, Penn was the only radiology department in the region to participate in this breakthrough study. “I think MRI is a very good option,” said Penn's Mitch Schnall, MD, PhD and senior author of the study. “This clearly demonstrates the ability of MRI to detect cancer not seen by mammography.”

Earlier detection of breast cancer in the second breast can have a significant impact on doctor and patient decisions by allowing the consideration of customized treatment plans, the potential for fewer rounds of chemotherapy and a smaller number of surgeries.

Comprehensive Treatment
Our participation in this cutting edge study brings the benefits of the research to our patients. In addition to remaining at the forefront of early detection, we lead the way in treatment of breast cancer by proactively advocating the use of MRI screening in addition to mammography and clinical breast exams as part of standard screening for women at high risk.

Penn has already begun to implement this procedure as part of its comprehensive care for women at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania. “It can provide peace of mind for women when they’re diagnosed,” explained Dr. Schnall.

The Rena Rowan Breast Center at the Abramson Cancer Center brings together nationally recognized specialists from many disciplines to create a collaborative team working to provide patients with the individual care they need. Our doctors, surgical oncologists, researchers, radiologists and nurses ensure patients get the best possible treatment for breast cancer from diagnosis to recovery.

We are changing the way breast cancer is detected, diagnosing it earlier and more efficiently. According to Dr. Schnall, “This study clearly shows that 1 in 30 women who think they have cancer in one breast after traditional evaluation actually have bilateral breast cancer that can be detected by MRI. Knowing this at the time of diagnosis of the first breast cancer has a significant impact on the approach to treatment.”

When it comes to the treatment of breast cancer, early detection at Penn gives patients the best options, which is why, where you turn first matters most.

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