Given its high sensitivity, MRI is most effectively used as what in breast cancer detection?

MRI is most effectively utilized as an adjunctive tool in breast cancer detection due to its high sensitivity, particularly in specific populations. While MRI can provide detailed images of breast tissue and detect abnormalities not visible on other imaging modalities, it is rarely used as a standalone primary diagnostic tool. Instead, it complements mammography and ultrasound, especially in cases where the patient has dense breast tissue or a high risk of breast cancer. This adjunctive use allows MRI to enhance the overall diagnostic accuracy by identifying additional tumors and assessing the extent of cancer more effectively.

Using MRI in such a supportive role is beneficial because it mitigates the limitations of other imaging methods and helps guide treatment decisions, while not replacing the established primary imaging tools like mammography.