Mammographic parenchymal patterns and quantitative evaluation of mammographic densities: A case-control study

Abstract

The classification of breast parenchymal patterns (N1, P1, P2, DY) and the percentage of the breast containing radiographic densities are two highly correlated radiographic measures proposed as predictors of the risk of breast cancer. In this case-control study, 160 cases of breast cancer and 160 matched controls from a mammography referral practice were compared to determine the risk of breast cancer associated with each of these two radiographic measures. The mammographic densities were quantified on caudal projections by means of a compensating polar planimeter. A relative risk estimate of 3.3 (p