Clinical results of DTI

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) approach allowing unique characterization of tissue microstructure that has been widely applied throughout the body. In addition to quantifying the degree of water diffusivity, DTI also captures the directionality (anisotropy) imparted by tissue microstructural factors, both of which show potential as diagnostic biomarkers for breast imaging. A growing number of studies have performed DTI of the breast, where DTI metrics have shown promise to map glandular organization, facilitate biological stratification of breast lesions (related to presence of malignancy, prognostic factors, and subtypes), and aid in prediction of response to therapy. This chapter will summarize DTI in the breast in the areas listed, including technical issues, interpretive frameworks, and clinical potential.