Digital breast tomosynthesis exams produce fewer false positive results than standard two-dimensional mammography, though not substantially, experts shared recently in JAMA Open Network. 

After analyzing almost 3 million mammographic images, researchers found that over a cumulative span of 10 years, women who underwent digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) exams were recalled due to false positive results 6.7% less often than individuals who completed digital mammography (DM) exams. This figure was more pronounced, however, when women completed biennial versus annual screening. 

“Early breast cancer detection via screening mammography is a key strategy to decrease breast cancer morbidity and mortality,” Thao-Quyen H. Ho, MD, from the Division of Biostatistics at the University of California Davis School of Medicine, and co-authors wrote. “However, mammography results in notable harms, including false-positive results, that lead to unnecessary additional imaging and biopsy procedures, financial and opportunity costs, and patient anxiety. 

With digital breast tomosynthesis systems accounting for almost half of all breast imaging systems in the U.S. now, many radiologists are opting for DBT as their screening modality of choice. Several studies have indicated that DBT exams produce fewer false positives and recall rates compared to digital mammography, but the authors of the study noted that in order for these figures to be truly reliable, multiple screenings over a span of many years are necessary.