Evaluating the Role of Virtual Touch Imaging in Differentiating Benign and Malignant Breast Lumps in Patients of Varying Age Groups

Virtual Touch Imaging in Differentiating Benign and Malignant Breast Lumps in Patients of Varying Age Groups

Abstract

Background: Virtual Touch Imaging Quantification (VTIQ), a shear wave elastography technique, provides a non-invasive method to assess tissue stiffness and may aid in distinguishing benign from malignant breast lesions. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of VTIQ in differentiating breast lumps, in correlation with histopathology, across a broad female population. Subjects and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Col Pant's Imaging Centre, New Delhi. A total of 160 female patients aged 18–70 years with sonographically evident breast lumps ≥4 mm was enrolled. All underwent B-mode ultrasonography and VTIQ elastography. VTIQ results were correlated with BI-RADS classification and histological findings. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to assess diagnostic significance. Results: The majority of patients were in the 45–53 age group (26.2%). Of the 160 lesions, 81 (50.6%) were in the left breast and 75 (46.8%) in the right. Most lumps (77.5%) were non-palpable. VTIQ values >5 m/s were observed in 81.8% of BI-RADS 4 lesions, correlating strongly with histologically confirmed malignancies. Conversely, BI-RADS 2 and 3 lesions predominantly showed VTIQ values <5 m/s, indicating benign pathology. This suggests VTIQ’s utility in reducing unnecessary biopsies in low-risk cases. Conclusion: VTIQ elastography demonstrates strong correlation with BI-RADS and histological outcomes, offering a valuable adjunct to conventional ultrasonography in breast lump evaluation. Its ability to stratify lesions based on stiffness enhances diagnostic confidence, potentially reducing invasive procedures in benign cases.