Diffusion tensor imaging in the normal breast: influences of fibroglandular tissue composition and background parenchymal enhancement

ObjectiveTo evaluate effects of fibroglandular tissue (FGT) composition and background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters in normal breast tissue.MethodsDTI analysis was performed on 35 breasts with regions of interest drawn to include only normal tissue. Breasts were dichotomized by FGT composition and by BPE; DTI parameters were compared.ResultsThe λ1 principal diffusion coefficient was lower in breasts with moderate/marked BPE versus those with minimal/mild BPE (P= .039). All other parameters were unaffected.Conclusionλ1 is sensitive to differences in BPE within normal breast tissue that should be taken into account in DTI evaluation.