What is it?

Contrast-enhanced mammography, or CEM, is an advanced type of mammogram that uses a special dye to highlight areas in your breast that might need closer attention. It can help detect signs of breast cancer that might not show up on a regular mammogram, especially in women with dense breasts.

 

How Does it Work?

CEM combines a regular mammogram with an injection of a contrast dye. The dye travels through your bloodstream and highlights areas with abnormal blood flow, which could indicate cancer.

 

Best for:

CEM is especially helpful for:

• Women with dense breast tissue, where regular mammograms may miss some changes.

• Women who’ve had unclear results on a previous mammogram or other imaging test.

• Women at higher risk for breast cancer who might need additional screening.

CEM may also be a good alternative to an MRI if you’re unable to have one or if it’s not available nearby.

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What to Expect:

• Before the Exam: You’ll have an IV placed so the contrast dye can be injected. Let your doctor know if you’ve had reactions to contrast dyes before.

• During the Exam: The dye will be injected through the IV just before the mammogram.You’ll have the same type of X-ray images taken as with a regular mammogram.

• Duration: The entire procedure takes about 20-30 minutes.

• After the Exam: You can return to your normal activities. Most people don’t have side effects from the dye, but let your doctor know if you feel unwell.

 

Important to Know:

• CEM is not yet available everywhere, so check with your provider about nearby options.

• Like other tests, it uses a small amount of radiation, but it’s within safe limits.

• It’s an emerging technology, so your doctor may recommend it as part of a more tailored approach to your breast screening.

 

Insurance Coverage

Most insurance plans cover standard mammograms, but coverage for contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) may vary. Check with your provider to confirm if this supplemental imaging is included in your plan.