Visual assessment of density in digital mammograms

Abstract

This study compares visual assessment of density on full field digital mammograms using visual analogue scales (VAS) and written percentages. Fifty normal digital screening mammograms were selected at random. Nine readers viewed the images on two occasions, firstly indicating density on a VAS and then estimating the percentage of dense tissue in the breast. Although the two methods were correlated, the degree of agreement between the density estimates varied considerably from reader to reader. More experienced readers used a wider range of values, and inter-observer variability for both methods was higher for these readers. The greatest difference between the methods was in mammograms with a mixed fatty-glandular appearance (density between 55% and 75%). Both methods are quick and convenient, although these results demonstrate a need for training to ensure they are used consistently by readers of different degrees of experience. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.