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Computer Aided Detection (CAD)
This is a relatively new technology available at specified breast centers.
It is based on the recommendation that screening mammograms be “double
read.” (This means that two radiologists, independently look at each
mammogram and render an opinion of negative, or needs additional work up.)
In theory, this would provide for less callbacks, and increased detection
of abnormalities. In reality, double reading was only accomplished at very
few centers for monetary and staffing reasons.
CAD was invented to meet the need for double reading without requiring a
second board certified radiologist at every breast center. The computer and
its software “looks over the shoulder” of the reading radiologist
and proffers its opinions.
A person’s mammograms are taken in the standard fashion, and then digitized
and analyzed. The CAD system marks the digitized images in areas that its
algorithms found to be suspicious. The reading radiologist then views the
person’s original mammograms, and then glances at the CAD display with
its markers. It works like a computer “spell checker”, but for
medical images. It causes the radiologist to focus on areas that may warrant
a second review.
Notice that the “D” in CAD is for “detection” and
not “diagnosis.” The computer is not capable of making a diagnosis,
only the radiologist can. The computer just points out possibilities, and
then the radiologist with his/her training and experience makes the judgment
call. 
The purpose of CAD is to reduce the number of false negative readings, i.e.
missed cancers. Early detection of breast cancers is the key to optimal survival
rates. Mammography is proven to be the most effective method of screening
for breast cancer. It makes sense that any tool that aids mammography will
help us reach our goal of detecting breast cancer early, when a cure is possible.
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