Computer-Aided Detection (CAD)
Computer-aided detection (CAD) technology is a recent advance in the field of breast imaging. CAD technology is designed to detect the following abnormalities on mammogram films:
- Patterns of bright spots that suggest microcalcifications (tiny calcium deposits that may indicate cancer)
- Dense regions with or without radiating lines that suggest breast masses or distortions.
To use CAD technology, mammogram films are loaded into a processing unit that digitizes the images. The digitized mammogram files are then transmitted to monitors on a motorized film viewer so the radiologist can compare the original film to the digitized mammogram image on a small monitor.
After the radiologist finishes reading the actual mammogram films, he or she can view the digitized mammograms to determine whether the computer marked any possible abnormalities on the films. After reviewing the computer’s marking, the radiologist can decide whether the marked area needs follow-up or if the computer has alerted him or her to a normal anatomy such as a blood vessel, that is no cause for concern. The final interpretation is made by the radiologist.
