Fig. 4

Potential role of T2-weighed images: the lesion signal as a possible surrogate of water content. Signal intensity on T2-weighted images may reflect water content and warrants further scientific research. Compared to the surrounding parenchyma, a lesion is classified as hyperintense (A), isointense (B), or hypointense (C). In D, a mass lesion is identified on T2-weighted images (red arrow). T2-weighted signal intensity is assessed in comparison with the surrounding parenchyma. In D, just like the adjacent Cooper ligaments, the parenchyma displays less signal than the tumour. Correspondingly, the tumour is classified as “hyperintense”. Findings suggest the presence of an aggressive breast carcinoma phenotype. Predictive/prognostic findings were verified by immune histology revealing high-grade cancer with negative steroid receptors and elevated Ki-67 suggesting high cellular proliferation. Note perifocal and subcutaneous oedema (dotted arrows). In contrast, E displays a hypointense less aggressive carcinoma (red arrow, G2, positive steroid receptors, only Ki-67+)