Background: Breast mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to aid in the screening and diagnostic evaluation of breast malignancies. Incidental findings of the skin and subcutaneous tissue are often detected on imaging with a specific differential diagnosis for the dermis and subcutaneous tissues. A solid grasp of basic skin anatomy and the distinctive imaging characteristics of typical benign skin and subcutaneous tissue masses is pivotal for precise diagnoses and for distinguishing them from potentially malignant causes. Furthermore, understanding the basic imaging features on different imaging modalities will help aid in determining the best and appropriate management for the patient.
Learning Objectives: Review normal skin anatomy.
Review imaging features of benign breast skin masses on MRI, ultrasound, and mammography.
Familiarize radiologists on the differential of benign breast skin masses
Abstract Content/Results: This is a pictorial review. We will review the background, imaging findings on ultrasound, mammography, and MRI of benign breast skin masses, differential diagnosis based on imaging, as well as, the prognosis and treatment of each mass. This includes sebaceous cyst, epidermal inclusion cyst, lipoma, hemangioma, angiolipoma, neurofibroma, and nevi.
Conclusion: Imaging is an important tool in the evaluation of breast masses. Knowledge of imaging features of benign masses is important in reducing unnecessary biopsies and aiding in the diagnosis and management of patients.