ACRIN updates multiple breast cancer trials

Apr 14, 2004

Data accrual in the Digital Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial (DMIST) has been completed, with mammograms obtained from 49,528 women.

The trial, conducted at 35 centers in the U.S. and Canada, compares full-field digital mammography (FFDM) to screen-film mammography (SFM) for the detection of breast cancer. Since enrollment began in 2001, each study participant underwent FFDM and SFM, as well as follow-up. Initial results are scheduled for release in the fall of 2004. Dr. Etta Pisano from the University of North Carolina (UNC) in Chapel Hill is the principal investigator.

Radiologists who are interested in serving as readers for the DMIST trial can obtain more information here.

The DMIST trial is part of the American College of Radiology Imaging Network (ACRIN), which also currently has two other breast imaging projects underway. The trial entitled "MRI of the Contralateral Breast" (ACRIN 6667) began enrollment in spring of 2003. One thousand women recently diagnosed with breast cancer will undergo MRI exams in the breast determined to be cancer-free. To date, 560 women have been enrolled. Dr. Constance Lehman, Ph.D., from the University of Washington in Seattle is the lead investigator.

Finally, "Screening Breast Ultrasound for High-Risk Women" (ACRIN 6666) began enrolling women this past March. The plan is to include 3,000 women at 20 U.S. institutions to determine the exact role of ultrasound in those who are at high risk for breast cancer. Dr. Wendie Berg, Ph.D., from UNC will head up this trial.

All of the lead investigators are slated to speak at the upcoming American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) meeting in Miami Beach, FL. Pisano will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of FFDM during a categorical course on May 2. Lehman will present a paper on MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy on May 5. Berg will share the results of training readers in breast ultrasound for ACRIN 6666 on May 4.

By AuntMinnie.com staff writers
April 15, 2004

Breast ultrasound experts share pearls and pitfalls, October 2, 2003

Study examines factors that affect FFDM performance, January 10, 2003