Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin scintigraphy in the evaluation of palpable breast masses

Tl-201 and Tc-99(m)-MIBI have been used io evaluate palpable breast masses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin as a new tumour localizing agent in patients with palpable breast masses. Nineteen palpable breast masses were evaluated in 18 patients. Each patient received 740 MBq Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin intravenously. Ten minutes after the injection, planar breast images in the anterior, right lateral and left lateral views were obtained with the patient in the supine position. Mammography and ultrasonography were performed in all patients. Biopsy or mastectomy with axillary dissection was performed in all patients. Thirteen of 14 primary breast tumours were detected (9 invasive ductal carcinomas, 3 invasive lobular carcinomas, 1 papillary carcinoma). One patient with mucinous carcinoma did not demonstrate Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin accumulation. Four of five patients with histopathologically proven benign lesions did not demonstrate Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin accumulation (2 fibrocystic diseases, 2 fibroadenomas). Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin accumulation was seen in a patient with chronic mastitis. The sensitivity and specificity of Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin for malignant breast lesions was 92 and 80% respectively. Four of seven (57%) axillary lymph node metastases showed Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin uptake. In conclusion, Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin shows real promise for use in evaluating patients with palpable breast masses.