Background: The initial Method of Detection (MOD) of breast cancer is defined as the first test or clinical event to initiate the workup leading to the histologic diagnosis of breast cancer. Cancer diagnosis can originate from various detection methods, including self-examination, clinical evaluation, and an array of screening imaging modalities such as mammography, MRI, ultrasound, and molecular imaging tests. Moreover, imaging findings on non-breast exams, such as abdominal CT or brain MRI, can initiate a workup leading to breast cancer diagnosis. A standardized system for reporting and tracking MOD is essential to facilitate evidence-based comparisons of clinical and imaging screening strategies and their impact on patient outcomes. The Screening and Emerging Technology Committee (SETCOM) within the ACR Commission on Breast Imaging has proposed a prospective data collection and reporting system for MOD with the goal of incorporating this vital information into local and national cancer registries. While widespread implementation of this system is still evolving, an increasing number of institutions are voluntarily embracing this initiative to monitor and report MOD. Due to the novelty of this proposed system, access to educational content and case-based learning tools is limited. This exhibit aims to serve as an interactive guide for breast imagers and radiology trainees to familiarize themselves with the nuances of appropriate reporting of MOD and potential challenges associated with complex clinical scenarios.
Learning Objectives: By reviewing this interactive case-based exhibit, learners will be able to: 1. Learn the historical background and role of the initial method of detection (MOD) in breast cancer diagnosis 2. Recognize the significance of systematically collecting MOD 3. Learn how to appropriately assign MOD sub-categories 4. Differentiate between Initial MOD and Additional Methods of Demonstration (AMOD) 5. Evaluate the role of MOD in assessing cancer outcomes, measuring screening effectiveness, and addressing cancer care disparities
Abstract Content/Results: - Background and importance of tracking MOD - MOD in different countries - MOD system proposed by ACR and examples of sub-categories - When to report and when not to report MOD - Interactive case-based illustration of examples and challenging scenarios
Conclusion: Incorporating MOD in breast imaging reports and cancer registries will help answer numerous national population-based questions about how screening relates to efficacy, equity, treatment, and breast cancer. This educational poster uses an interactive case-based approach to provide a comprehensive understanding of Initial MOD, its relevance in breast cancer diagnosis, and the practical challenges associated with MOD documentation.