Current Status of Imaging for Breast Cancer Staging

Purpose of Review: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Accurate clinical staging is important as it guides management and treatment. The radiologist plays an important role in the evaluation of breast cancer because imaging is integral to clinical staging. This review aims to highlight the various aspects of staging breast cancer with an emphasis on the appropriate use of imaging. Recent Findings: The 8th edition of the American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) Staging Manual incorporates tumor markers and other prognostic factors, in addition to the traditional anatomic staging. This allows a more precise estimation of disease extent, allowing appropriate treatment and management of patients. Imaging plays an important role in accurately staging patients clinically. Different breast imaging modalities and systemic imaging modalities complement each other to give the most accurate clinical stage, which is then combined with biological and prognostic factors to guide patient management. Summary: Understanding the staging of breast cancer is essential for the radiologist and allows for individualized and prognostic-based management of breast cancer patients.