What is Contrast Enhanced Mammography?
Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM), can provide additional information beyond a conventional mammogram, and may result in earlier detection of some cancers as CEM has been shown to detect cancers that may not be visible on a standard mammogram.
A CEM exam uses contrast dye containing iodine (the same dye as used in CT scans). This dye makes it easier to find new blood vessels that develop when cancers grow. This type of exam can be performed in the same exam with breast tomosynthesis (3D mammogram) and a normal mammogram in the same time frame.
CEM has been shown to find breast cancers that can’t be seen on regular mammograms, especially in women with dense breasts. In this regard it is similar to MRI of the breast. CEM exams provide additional information about the extent of newly diagnosed breast cancers, and can offer improved reporting confidence to allow for effective treatment planning.
A CEM exam is very similar to having a conventional mammogram. However, prior to the exam, your nurse or technologist will insert an intravenous (IV) cannula in your arm to administer the IV contrast. You may feel a warm sensation as the IV contrast is inserted. This is normal.
A CEM exam takes about 15 minutes longer than a regular mammogram. This extra time is needed for the contrast portion of the test.
If you have diabetes, take metformin, or have renal disease, you will need to have a blood test called an EGFR (a test for kidney function) within 12 months of your CEM.
You can eat a light meal (such as a sandwich or soup) on the day of your CEM exam. The contrast may cause some mild nausea.
Do not use deodorant, lotion, cream, powder, talc, oils, or perfume before your CEM exam.
You may be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.
For all mammogram services, please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.
People who undergo CEM exams are exposed to slightly more radiation than people who have regular mammograms. This additional radiation is about the same as having one extra mammogram picture taken (e.g. five pictures instead of four).
Rarely, people can have an allergic reaction to intravenous (IV) contrast.
You should tell your doctor if you:
- Have had kidney disease or poor kidney function
- Have ever had an allergic reaction to iodinated contrast in the past
- If you are a diabetic on metformin
CEM is not advised for women who are pregnant.
Please keep in mind your doctor believes that the benefit of having this examination performed outweighs the very small risk to your health that is caused by exposing your body to this low dose of radiation.
The IV line will be removed and a bandage placed over the site. The bandage can be removed that evening.
Drink six to eight glasses of water in the 24 hours after your CEM exam. Drinking water will help remove the contrast from your body.
Just like with regular mammogram you may need to have additional tests to evaluate your CEM exam findings. These may include an ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a biopsy.
The cost of a CEM exam depends on whether you meet Medicare criteria for a rebate. Please discuss your eligibility for a rebate with your referring doctor before you book an appointment.
Our Customer Service Team will be able to advise you of all costs involved with your mammogram including any out-of-pocket costs.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the day of your scan or bringing another adult with you to care for your child.
Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.
Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.
