Early forms of breast cancer according to the different molecular subtypes: imaging features

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease. Spiculated lesions on mammography correspond to type A luminal cancers, the least aggressive. The most aggressive breast cancer subtypes are more difficult to diagnose because their imaging characteristics mimic benign lesions and can therefore be overlooked on standard imaging. A rigorous analysis of these pseudo benign lesions in search of subtle elements must be respected. Ultrasound can complement screening mammography, especially in patients with dense breasts. Although, these cancers may appear on mammography and ultrasound as pseudo benign lesions, they are very suspicious of malignancy on MRI when it is performed. This article details the most frequent imaging aspects of breast cancer according to the molecular subtype. (C) 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.