BIRADSsystemet

The BIRADS system, which stands for Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System, is a standardized method for categorizing mammogram findings. Developed by the American College of Radiology (ACR), it was introduced in 1986 to improve the quality and consistency of mammography reporting. The primary goal of BIRADS is to reduce confusion and enhance communication between radiologists, referring physicians, and patients.

The system assigns a category from 0 to 6 to each breast examination. Category 0 indicates an incomplete assessment, requiring additional imaging evaluation. Category 1 signifies a negative exam, meaning no abnormalities were detected. Category 2 represents benign findings, which are not cancerous but may require follow-up based on the specific finding. Category 3 indicates a probably benign finding, with a low likelihood of malignancy (less than 2%), suggesting short-term follow-up.

Category 4 is for suspicious findings, where a biopsy is recommended to rule out malignancy. This category is further subdivided into 4A, 4B, and 4C, with increasing levels of suspicion. Category 5 denotes a highly suggestive of malignancy finding, requiring immediate biopsy, with a probability of cancer greater than 95%. Finally, Category 6 is for known biopsy-proven malignancy, used when imaging is performed after a biopsy confirms cancer to assess the extent of the disease. The BIRADS system also includes standardized terminology for describing breast density and imaging findings. This standardized approach facilitates outcome tracking and research.