European consensus on pre-operative imaging in breast cancer developed jointly by EUSOBI, ESSO, ESP and ESTRO

The current practice of pre-operative imaging in breast cancer is highly varied throughout Europe. Therefore, the European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI) launched a call to all other European scientific societies involved in breast care to provide expert advice for pre-operative imaging in breast cancer and come to a common understanding of the types of evidence required for clinical practice guidelines for diagnostic tests. A panel comprising 13 experts (invited based on their level of expertise and representation in medical societies) voted on statements and questions encompassing all aspects of pre-operative staging. Consensus was reached in 67.4% of statements and questions, a majority in 28.3%, and no decision in 4.3%. Based on these findings, the panel developed a practical toolbox, based on currently available evidence and panel expertise, for the optimal breast cancer staging pathway considering all current imaging methods. KEY POINTS: Question What is the role of breast MRI and other imaging methods in pre-operative staging in the light of current evidence? Findings Consensus was reached among panelists in 67.4% of statements and questions, a majority in 28.3%, and no decision in 4.3%. Clinical relevance A practical working toolbox for optimal breast cancer staging is provided based on currently available evidence and panel expertise.